A stirring new EP out today from Bee Eigen, Sanguine is described by the Nevada City-based singer/songwriter as “the soundtrack to my woes and pleasures.” An affecting folk sound combines with personal lyrical introspection. “These songs explore the ways in which my identity has changed, including my leap into motherhood and my struggles with mental health,” Eigen says.
“Incredible Nothing” opens the EP with a compelling sense of yearning. “All I want is to be wrapped in your golden light,” Eigen sings. “Nothing matters at all when there’s nothing for miles and miles,” continues the sentiments of searching, traversing into the night within frolicking acoustics and beautifully lush vocals — reminding fondly of Tennis’ Alaina Moore. Idyllic visions, of childhood play and carpe-diem reveling, combine with a gentle folk arsenal for an enthralling kick-off to the release.
“Cake” follows with more emphasis on soaring vocal passion, within a more minimalist acoustic backing. The repeated “validation,” line is particularly impactful. “Your hands are sticky with cake, but I baked it. Evidence is all on your face,” the vocals stir prior to that refrain, suggesting an emotively smitten entrancement and the impacts that can have on self-worth. The subsequent “Aquarium Blue” melds chilly keys and creaky guitars with a call for change — where “call me alien, call me devil, just call me something new,” furthers the “everyday just looks the same,” sentiments; a feeling of being at the crossroads is artfully conveyed.
Closing the EP in satiating form, “Bugs At McNear” exudes a catharsis in the “give life,” sequence — emerging with a babies’ laughter as past heartbreak and melancholy departs in favor of light, and a newfound quest to share love. The Sanguine EP is a memorable showcase in songwriting from Bee Eigen, venturing with intimate captivation in depictions of personal journey and growth.
