Soft Sounds and Deep Feelings

In Widowspeak’s seventh studio album, Roses, the New York duo explores themes of romantic and platonic love, personal growth and rebirth after a painful stage of life. These are not new themes for the group, who are known for the lovely, dreamlike quality of their folk-pop sound. Roses simply displays a refined version of that style, one that has been evolving since the duo’s debut in 2011. It is notable that the group has not released a full-length project since 2020. There is certainly a feeling that Widowspeak spent the past six years becoming even more in tune with their influences and working to define themselves within an increasingly oversaturated indie-rock scene.

The album’s opener, “The Hook,” is an ode to young love and the relationships between teenagers and young adults. With dissonant chords peppered throughout the song structure, the track serves as a reminder that love at such an age can be fleeting, but sweet and sincere all the same. “Wondering” is likely to resonate with many young adults, detailing how mundane and deflating it can feel to be young and directionless. The song yearns for purpose and a way out of a harsh, dissatisfying cycle. “Soft Cover” is upbeat and pop-oriented. It is also the most radio-friendly track on the album.

Roses does not exhibit any glaring low points. The album is introspective and thoughtful, thematically consistent and pleasant to listen to. Each track flows seamlessly into the next. There are no gaps and no moments where listeners are left wondering where an idea or sound came from. Roses is a solid entry into Widowspeak’s greater body of work.