Apacalda envelops listeners in veiled shadows on there’s a shadow in my room and it isn’t mine

With a sound that blooms and broods, APACALDA envelops listeners in veiled shadows inspired by classic 4AD-style dream pop and darkwave. Her debut album, There's A Shadow In My Room And It Isn't Mine cleverly utilizes sparse arrangements and propelling rhythms that add an affecting edge to songs exploring queerness, jealousy, and fleeting romance. With a hushed voice, APACALDA conveys heavy spirits in lightweight fashion, navigating moments of beauty and sadness with passionately hushed tones.

Songs like "Jealous" centre around electric bass, and sound reminiscent of a gothic ESG. A spacious mix gives the album an airy feel that plays in contrast to songs more densely packed with synths, guitar, and harmonized vocals. Playing with a similarly open sound and ramping up to a cacophonous and crushing crescendo is album highlight, "Dead Weight." Topped by the unease of APACALDA's screams, the song's visceral attitude has unrelenting power in releasing her innermost emotions. Elsewhere, moments of quiet tenderness play alongside textured guitar and keys. It's a varied listen that surges with raw energy and bracing tension.

Elsewhere, synths take lead and provide the album a varied approach that add depth and nuance to an already compelling album. The lead synth bass on "Darkness" fluctuates in pitch, giving an off kilter feel that prevents the song from becoming rigid and unchanging. Synth pads and rolling drums take over on "Lie 4 U," creating a sense of gloom as the song builds and roars with unease. 

For a debut record, APACALDA sounds assured and confident in her craft. Songs boil over with tension, pushing and pulling between the classic sounds that inspire the album with more modern processes. There's A Shadow In My Room And It Isn't Mine is evocative and daring, ruminating in deep thought while presenting a sonically rich sound with a pulsing heartbeat.