Owen-von-Korg does not play music at a distance. Sorrow is from a true source. It is from grief, loss and emotions that had to be expressed somewhere. That can be heard on all parts of the track. This is not a sad or performance acter. It's shaped and turned to sound like the real thing.
All of the production is done using hardware synthesizers. No shortcuts and no safety net. I believe that is a decision that needs to be made. The Roland MV-1 and the TR-8S drum machine add some heft and texture to the track that software doesn't always achieve. The bassline is deliberate and deep. The synths shimmer and rise, covered in reverb, and the whole track is like the weather changing.
The vocals are what keeps it together. They are dark, steady and controlled. They remain in the centre of the arrangement, but do not take over. It's a bit restrained, but there's a lot of presence. Owen-von-Korg's influences are 80s post-punk and gothic music, and there's no denying it. Despite this, this isn't a copy of anything. It's like it's its own thing.
It's never been just about songs with the Librarian Sisters. It's been called a gallery, and art and poetry have been hung on dark walls created from synthesised sound. Sorrow is a perfect fit for that. It's engaging and thoughtfully designed. It's a type of track that requires you to pause and concentrate, listen attentively.
What remains is the honesty in that. When music is authentic, it's different. This track does just that. It's like a journal of challenging feelings become something you can grasp. Sorrow is a strong piece of work. Black, serious and sensuous. It's a perfect example of the Librarian Sisters' best. A quiet song that stays with you afterwards.
