Feist - Pleasure (LP)

Feist returns with her fifth studio album, "Pleasure," a chamber pop masterpiece that invites you into a world of introspection and musical elegance. After a six-year hiatus, the Canadian singer-songwriter delivers a deeply personal collection of songs that explore themes of secrecy, loneliness, tenderness, and self-awareness. Recorded across the winter of 2015/2016 in California, New York State, and Paris, "Pleasure" is a testament to Feist's artistic evolution and her ability to craft songs that resonate on a profound level.

The album spans 53 minutes, featuring 11 tracks that often stretch towards the five-minute mark, creating a cohesive journey rather than a series of standalone pieces. From the hauntingly beautiful "I Wish I Didn't Miss You" to the playful "Any Party" and the introspective "Lost Dreams," each song is a carefully crafted gem. The title track, "Pleasure," sets the tone with its delicate yet powerful arrangement, showcasing Feist's signature vocals and her knack for blending simplicity with depth.

"Pleasure" is not just an album; it's an experience. The production is meticulous, with Feist collaborating with a team that includes her longtime friend and creative partner, Mary. Their work together brings a unique visual and auditory dimension to the album, as seen in the in-camera illusions and effects created using a roll of mylar. This attention to detail extends to the physical release, with the cassette version featuring a 6-panel digisleeve and a 3x4 lyrics poster fold-out sheet, making it a collector's item.

For fans of Feist, "Pleasure" is a welcome return that showcases her growth as an artist. For newcomers, it's an introduction to a world of poetic lyricism and enchanting melodies. Whether you're drawn to the intimate storytelling or the lush instrumentation, "Pleasure" is an album that demands to be heard and felt. It's a study in self-awareness, a reflection on life's complexities, and a celebration of the human experience.

This LP was released in 2017.