Founded in 2020 by Brussels-based songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Wim Lankriet, Euphemia Rise is a project like no other. Inspired by artists such as True Widow, Emma Ruth Rundle and King Woman, Euphemia Rise have created a sound that artfully blends bold ‘90s vibes with more contemporary alt-rock influences, striking hard with dark, twisted love songs and fiercely original narratives. After releasing their debut single in September of 2020, the band have been hard at work on their debut record, ‘Born a Cow’, and now that it’s here, it’s time to put it to the test.
A bold illustration of Lankriet’s many talents, which includes his roles as a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and keyboard player, ‘Born a Cow’ in unconventional, yet classical, layering a fine combination of guitars and electronics, layered vocals and spacey synths, with bold, emotive lyrics that explore the dark sides of human relations.
While short, at just eight tracks and less than twenty minutes, the album covers an impressive amount of ground, reflecting Lankriet’s creative drive and his will to create something free of elaborate instrumentals, where the songwriting, lyrics, and emotion can truly take centre stage Touching on topics such as drug use, prostitution, sadomasochism, and rape, ‘Born a Cow’ tells the tale of sensitive souls trying to cope with the world around them, and while it might be dark, it’s never negative.
The opening cut and title track is a perfect example of this unique and sensitive sound, delivering a haunting synth sound that expands into infinite scale, while Lankriet calls out from the abyss, delivering lines about toxic relationships and the confusion, pain, and problems they cause. It’s a dizzying opening piece, and it sets the tone for the album, with following tracks ‘Surviving the Dreams’, ‘A Rose Shattered’, and ‘Heaven In Your Hands’ all flowing with the same tactile sounds and delicate emotions.
While it is easy to view ‘Born a Cow’ through its dark, distorted tones, the album is far more than it appears on the surface. Candid, shameless, and strangely accepting, it’s an album that revels in the darkness that we all fight, reaching out and letting us know that no matter how heavy or unassailable our situation might seem, we’re not alone.
Available now on all major platforms, ‘Born a Cow’ isn’t a mainstream or traditionally popular release, but it is a rewarding listen that will stay with you days on end if you approach it with the right frame of mind.
Score: 7/10
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