Blondshell is ready to unveil her next artistic statement with Violins, an album that promises to delve deep into the complex coexistence of beauty and brutality. The new record, led by the standout track “Violins,” is set for release on September 25th via Partisan Records.
The soundscape of Violins is a masterclass in emotional immediacy, drawing inspiration from classic acts like Gang of Four, Teenage Fanclub, the Go-Betweens, and Sade. While retaining those signature hook-heavy guitars, the album pushes Blondshell’s established style, widening the artistic lens of her previous work to grapple with profound themes of violence, religion, friendship, and the slow, often frustrating journey of healing.
The creation process for Violins was deeply personal. The artist, Sabrina Teitelbaum, found that this record allowed her to focus on what she truly wanted to express. “I felt like I didn’t need to over-explain anything,” Teitelbaum shared. “It feels like every time I make a record, I get closer to making the thing that I really want to make.”
The centerpiece of the album, “Violins,” serves as the record’s North Star. It is built around a deceptively simple exchange, exploring the truth that recovery and personal growth rarely follow a linear timeline. The song encapsulates the album’s core message: “It’s not overnight / It takes all my focusing.” Teitelbaum notes that while writing, she was inspired by images of both violence and patience, emphasizing the necessity of healing slowly and refusing to be rushed.
The visual identity of the project is equally striking. The accompanying video, directed by Sabra Binder, immerses viewers in a world of dream logic blended with high fashion. It features Teitelbaum trapped in a surreal room attempting to preserve a melting fawn-shaped ice sculpture, rich with imagery inspired by Alexander McQueen and experimental theater.
Artistically, Violins marks a deliberate shift in Blondshell’s songwriting. The artist stated that the record is heavier, moving away from using romantic relationships as the primary vehicle for her themes. Instead, she sought to create songs that “hit hard,” prioritizing powerful imagery and big lead lines over literal narrative.
Violins follows significant recent activity, including the release of “Heart Has To Work So Hard” and appearances like Kesha’s Bonnaroo SuperJam, demonstrating an evolving artistic direction. The album will be supported by an extensive tour across North America and Europe this fall, kicking off on October 14th in San Diego. Blondshell will bring a dynamic lineup, featuring support from Bully, Starcleaner Reunion, Prewn, TTSSFU, and Theatre.
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Credit: Spin
