This newest song from Berlin’s Varley hurts so good. “Disease” is a glowing portrait of loneliness patiently painted with broad strokes of guitar and wisps of synth. Just above the steadfast but traveling pulse of the song created by the rhythm section, Claire-Ann Varley’s voice floats confidently in a melody that perfectly captures the slow but steady ache and yearning of loneliness. The persistence of the verse pattern combined with the lyrical seeking for escape is so relatable in its sonic representation of continual isolation. It’s easy to feel the stab of pain when the lyrics question “What you doing tonight? Maybe I could come by?” and are only answered after a short pause with “No? Ok.” As the melody fades away, the instrumental refrain comes in with a supportive, warm embrace. It’s a song that sonically provides the solace for its lyrical struggle in a most comforting way.
Listen to more Varley here.
