Lark, the critically acclaimed outsider rock musician and artist, returns with a gritty and atmospheric single titled “Blind,” announcing their upcoming album Be Still, set for release on January 31, 2025, through Standard Lamp Records.
The track opens with crashing percussive drums, transitioning into a dark soundscape driven by bass and guitar. The vocals embody a lo-fi, grungy quality, reflecting shades of punk and creating an overall dark and moody atmosphere.
Lark is an independent London band led by Karl Bielik, an idiosyncratic songwriter often described as a “singular voice” by Clash. The band is known for its heavy basslines, raucous sounds, and turbulent lyricism, painting a volatile picture of their environment. Bielik’s approach blends improvisation with a cut-up technique inspired by William S. Burroughs, resulting in lyrics that present a distorted and fractured perspective.
The upcoming album features contributions from notable artists, including bass from Emma Richardson (The Pixies) and artwork by James Johnston (PJ Harvey, Nick Cave). Be Still explores themes such as uneasy childhood memories, cultural roots, and the lingering effects of the pandemic, weaving them into Lark’s distinct sonic landscape.
“Blind” reflects Bielik’s unique style, starting as a straightforward love song before evolving into a piece that omits the word “love,” evident in the lyrics’ “I…You” motif. The single is accompanied by a film directed by Charlie Bonallack and Kaz Raad, with artwork by Dan Holliday, as part of an ongoing collaboration with various artists to complement the album.