Elena Krell is no stranger to the music scene. With four albums already to her name, and a handful of EPs and singles as Hen in the Foxhouse, Krell has been steadily building a reputation for her unique blend of musical styles and insightful lyrics. Now, with the release of her first full-length album as Hen in the Foxhouse, entitled ‘Look Up’, Krell is ready to step into the spotlight.
Co-produced with UK-based multi-instrumentalist and engineer Ru Lemer, 'Look Up' showcases Krell's growth as an artist. The album is a beautifully cohesive collection of songs that explore a wide range of emotions and themes, from the playful and humorous to the deeply personal and political.
Krell's songwriting is as eclectic as ever, drawing inspiration from a variety of sources, including folk, pop, and electronic music. Yet, despite this diversity, the album feels remarkably cohesive, like "an aquatic ecosystem of disparate plant and animal life that make sense together."
As Krell explains, the A-side “is more extroverted,” featuring catchy and humorous tracks like ‘Johnny, Chris and Ricardo’, a tongue-in-cheek ode to modern dating, and the uplifting ‘Whatever They Want’, a wistful anthem of personal freedom. However, it's the politically charged ‘War on Little Girls’ that truly stands out. This powerful manifesto tackles the issue of childhood sexual abuse, linking it to the casual misogyny that pervades our society. Krell's lyrics are both insightful and incisive, culminating in the powerful line, "the natural effect of a racist colonial vision, that hates girls and women."
The latter half of the record takes a more introspective turn, opening with the neoclassical string quartet ‘The Birds’. This instrumental piece sets the tone for the remainder of the side, which explores themes of heartbreak, loss, and resilience. ‘Nice Girl in Texas’ is a hauntingly beautiful song about letting go, while ‘Toothbrush’ offers a tender reflection on the pandemic and its impact on human connection.
Throughout the album, Krell's vocals are captivating, her voice shifting effortlessly between vulnerability and strength. Her lyrics are equally compelling, often marrying words to melody in unexpected and delightful ways.
‘Look Up’ is a truly remarkable debut, showcasing Krell's talent as a songwriter, lyricist, and performer. With its eclectic blend of musical styles, insightful lyrics, and captivating vocals, this album is sure to appeal to a wide range of listeners. Hen in the Foxhouse is a name you'll want to remember.
For more from Elena Krell, be sure to check out her website, or follow her on Instagram and Twitter.