Arlo Parks became an international sensation after the release of her 2021 breakout album Collapsed in Sunbeams earned the singer, songwriter several Grammy and BRIT award nominations. With this newfound success, Parks took an even more introspective approach on her highly anticipated sophomore effort My Soft Machine. The deeply personal record narrates Parks’ transition into adulthood with a much more dynamic soundtrack than her debut, showcasing a new exploratory approach to her artistry.
“The world/our view of it is peppered by the biggest things we experience – our traumas, upbringing, vulnerabilities almost like visual snow. This record is life through my lens, through my body – the mid 20s anxiety, the substance abuse of friends around me, the viscera of being in love for the first time, navigating PTSD and grief and self sabotage and joy, moving through worlds with wonder and sensitivity – what it’s like to be trapped in this particular body,” Parks says of My Soft Machine.
Parks’ vulnerable storytelling is backed by dreamy arrangements that make for pleasant listening for all. Watch her perform “Blades,” “Dog Rose” and “Devotion” off My Soft Machine live at WNXP’s Sonic Cathedral.
Hear Parks discuss collaboration on the new album, adjusting to life in LA and more while On The Record with WNXP.