British indie musician Arlo Parks has opened up about the deeply personal and therapeutic aspects of her songwriting process, while revealing the inspirations behind her upcoming third studio album, titled 'Ambiguous Desire'. The 25-year-old artist, set to release the project on 3 April, shared these insights during an appearance on the 'Good Vibrations' podcast.
The Meaning Behind 'Ambiguous Desire'
Parks explained that the album's title captures a complex blend of emotions she explored while immersing herself in the nightlife scenes of New York, Los Angeles, and London. "I feel like I was inspired a lot by liminal spaces and being in the 'inbetween'," she said. The 'ambiguous' part reflects a sense of fluidity and the exploration of feelings that are difficult to articulate, such as chemistry or full-circle emotions.
As for the 'desire' component, Parks described it as being fueled by yearning, lust, and wanting. "I feel like you learn so much about people through what they want, and that was kind of the heart of the record," she noted. Her clubbing experiences helped amplify these intense feelings, as she observed fleeting moments and romantic connections in crowded venues.
Songwriting as a Therapeutic Outlet
Parks, who won the Mercury Prize in 2021 for her debut album 'Collapsed in Sunbeams', emphasized how songwriting serves as a therapeutic practice for her. As a self-reliant individual who values solitude, she finds comfort in documenting her experiences through music. "I feel like I write or make songs to kind of remind myself that I was here and I was alive and I was feeling this on this day or at this point in my life," she shared.
She often sits with her journal to capture small details, creating a sense of anonymity in her lyrics. "I feel like so much of my music is sharing how I would to a friend, or if I were completely unobserved," Parks added. This approach mirrors the private moments she enjoys in clubs, where individuals can express themselves without judgment.
Reflections on Relationships and Self-Discovery
During the podcast conversation, Parks also touched on the challenges of entering new relationships. "When you are close to someone or in love with someone, they hold up a mirror to you and it is difficult... there are things you have to face about yourself," she remarked. She acknowledged that it takes time for her to 'unpeel' herself in such situations, not due to being closed off, but as a natural part of her process.
Parks highlighted the communal yet personal nature of clubbing, where everyone experiences their own private moments amidst a shared environment. "I think that's the magic of it," she said, drawing parallels to her songwriting style. Her third album, 'Ambiguous Desire', is poised to delve into these themes of desire, self-reflection, and emotional ambiguity.
The full interview with Arlo Parks will be available on Roisin O'Connor's 'Good Vibrations' podcast from 27 March across all major streaming platforms.
