The Art of Process: Alexandra Levy and Her Latest Album
Embracing the Journey of Creation
Songwriting, painting, and poetry are not just hobbies for Alexandra Levy; they are essential parts of her identity as an artist. Based in Montreal, Levy has cultivated a deep appreciation for the act of creating itself. In a recent interview, she shared, “I think failure comes from being too fixated on the finished product, and so creative success must be [in] the focus on the process.” This philosophy is beautifully embodied in her third album as Ada Lea, when i paint my masterpiece.
A Refreshing Respite
From Exhaustion to Inspiration
Levy crafted when i paint my masterpiece during a period of reflection after an intense phase of writing, recording, and touring. The experience left her feeling drained, prompting her to step back from music and redirect her focus toward painting and poetry. During this time, she also began teaching, enriching her creative perspective. The result is an album that feels refreshingly light and airy, with many tracks appearing like fleeting sketches supported by minimal instrumentation.
Musical Composition
On tracks like “midnight magic,” Levy’s close harmonies glide effortlessly over a foundation of steady piano chords, creating a serene atmosphere. Meanwhile, “it isn’t enough” breaks away from traditional song structures, opting instead for a slow, captivating melody enhanced by gentle guitar and percussion. This shift in musical style marks a departure from the frenetic energy of her earlier works.
Thematic Exploration
A Shift in Mood
when i paint my masterpiece presents a more even-keeled tone compared to her previous albums. While 2021’s one hand on the steering wheel the other sewing a garden delved into the complexities of young love and heartbreak, Levy’s new collection contemplates broader existential themes such as community, observation, and purpose. In “it isn’t enough,” she reflects on the dualities of life: “You give and you take/You try and you fail/You live and you love.” Similarly, in “just like in the museum,” she captures the essence of life’s ups and downs: “We laugh when it’s good/And cry when it’s not.” These lines, though profound, are presented with a lightness that feels like an initial draft awaiting further refinement.
Narratives of Everyday Life
At its core, Levy’s unforced approach allows her to weave stream-of-consciousness narratives that seem to flow effortlessly. The track “baby blue frigidaire mini fridge” begins with an enumeration of curiosities, gradually expanding its scope to encompass themes of love and nostalgia, culminating in reflections on timelessness with lines like “our old time souls/This old-time moon.” In “snowglobe,” she paints a vibrant picture of a gathering, capturing the essence of togetherness with warmth and humor, declaring, “Look at us/Sitting ’round the kitchen table/Thinking that/We are made of something special.”
Conclusion
Alexandra Levy’s when i paint my masterpiece stands as a testament to the beauty of the creative process. By shifting her focus from the end result to the act of creation itself, she has produced an album that resonates with authenticity and joy. Through her light, folk-inspired melodies and thoughtful lyrics, Levy invites listeners to appreciate the small moments that shape our lives.
FAQs
What inspired Alexandra Levy’s shift in musical style for her new album?
Levy took a break from music to focus on painting and poetry, which influenced the lighter, more introspective sound of when i paint my masterpiece.
How does Levy’s new album differ from her previous works?
While her earlier albums explored intense emotions related to love and heartbreak, her latest album focuses on broader themes of community and existence, presenting a more even-keeled mood.
What is the significance of the album’s title, when i paint my masterpiece?
The title reflects Levy’s emphasis on the creative process rather than the finished product, highlighting her belief in the value of artistic exploration and experimentation.
