The first album of Eleri Ward, Internal Rituals, is a soft call to slack, to breathe and to take a look inside. Through the twelve exquisitely composed songs, she delves into the motifs of self-discovery, healing and self-improvement. Her music resembles a close dialogue with the soul, as cinematic pop is combined with indie and elements of modern jazz into a dreamy but simultaneously grounding sound.
The very opening song, the gorgeous soprano of Ward produces a somewhat ethereal effect. The rhythmic vibrato of her voice gives every word of the songs a sense of emotional belief, and the piano, synths, and subtle guitar sounds create a relaxing melody. Songs such as Citrine (Would’ve Been Nice) and Burden emphasize the elements of her talent of mixing emotional storytelling and dense, rich textures arrangements. Both of the tracks develop gradually, as a quest through reminiscences, feelings, even spiritual thoughts.
The message of Internal Rituals is so strong. Ward explains the album as an individual cause to make others feel that they should be themselves and that they need to love themselves and be strong within. This intent is reflected in the music, which can inspire listeners to look at their own lives and find their own founts of inner strength. Songs such as Float and Run reflect the fragile state involved in leaving the past but walking bravely into the future.
The album finishes with a Venusian Light on an up-note of celebration and self-love. It is almost as though it were a gentle rise of the sun, following a lengthy night–a lesson that recovery is not only not unpleasant, but it is lovely. Internal Rituals is not merely an album, but a musical haven to every person who is in need of some comfort, development, or even a bit of hope. It is a beautiful piece to hear, as it is a walk in your own heart.
