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As the gloom of seasonal depression takes over, the memories of bright sunny days and warm summer nights seem like a distant dream. 

However, Etta Marcus' mini album, The Death of Summer & Other Promises, offers a cathartic release from the shattered expectations of the season. The project is a poignant and intimate exploration of the emotions of grief and melancholy that often accompany the end of summer. Through her music, Marcus captures the raw essence of these feelings, creating a powerful and moving listening experience. 

Hailing from the vibrant city of South London, the talented 22-year-old musician has crafted a mesmerizing indie rock album that is both empowering and emotionally stirring. With a sound that is reminiscent of the golden era of British indie rock, the mini album takes listeners on a journey that is both nostalgic and fresh. Each track is meticulously crafted with soulful lyrics that touch on themes of love, loss, and personal growth. 

The opening track, "Theatre," sets the tone for a captivating musical experience, intertwining passionate vocals with haunting production. The song builds up gradually, drawing in the listener with its powerful crescendos and gripping lyrics. “I rehearse a work of theatre for you / Come alive / I'll play dead tonight, I'll remember each line,” she sings with precision and depth. As the track climaxes, the lyrics become even more poignant, describing the need to act instead of embracing real feelings. The words are both haunting and beautiful, painting a vivid picture of one's need to be loved, even if it's just for a moment. 

"Lovesick Boy Prays" is an intriguing track with a haunting and eerie production style. The echoing breaths and elongated vocals blend seamlessly with the melody. The track manages to evoke a sense of longing, further enhanced by the atmospheric soundscape. Focusing on the death of summer, the lyrics remark, “I'm finding it harder to breathe / Summer's on its deathbed / And you've no time to grieve.”

If you're searching for a masterfully crafted indie rock anthem that would leave a lasting impression even on the likes of Kat Stratford, the protagonist of the '90s classic movie 10 Things I Hate About You, then "Snowflake Suzie" is the perfect song for you. "Snowflake Suzie" masterfully showcases Marcus' impressive ability to create variety in her projects. From the cleverly crafted lyrics to the catchy melody and electrifying guitar riffs, everything about this track is designed to captivate and mesmerize.

"Girls That Play" is an electrifying musical piece that boasts mind-blowing guitar riffs and an invigorating spoken chorus. It is a call-to-action anthem that celebrates the strength and power of women all around the world. “I heard you might give up, Don't you even start, I'll take you anywhere, darling,” she bellows. Meanwhile, "Skin Parade" highlights her exceptional vocal range and versatility. The way she effortlessly blends deep lows and soaring highs is truly captivating and evokes a powerful emotional response.

Marcus' performance in "Little Wing" is truly exceptional, providing the listener with one of the most heartfelt and poignant lyrical sets in the entire album. As you listen to her words, it feels as if she is personally sharing her own life story with you, recounting the experiences of her childhood and the joys and hardships of growing up. Through the song's poignant lyrics, Marcus reflects on her journey of self-discovery and personal growth, chronicling the moments of her life where she felt the most vulnerable and the times when she learned to spread her "little wing" and soar to new heights. "Little Wing" is a piece of art that captures the essence of life's journey with both grace and beauty.

"Fruit Flies" is a soothing and calming piece of music that appears towards the end of the album. It is a deeply emotional and personal song that explores the concept of giving love, only to have the person you shared it with leave you feeling hollow and empty inside. The lines, "Moldy inside / They talk of summer, but when it dies / I'll watch as I ripen tonight" evoke a sense of overwhelming heartache and despair. Despite this, the song also offers a glimmer of hope, reminding the listener that even in the depths of heartbreak, they are still capable of feeling love and that there is always a chance for renewal and growth.

The final track of the album, “Dog Eyes,” provides a final synopsis of Marcus' summertime and the continued lies that left her here. Culminating her emotional journey and lessons learned, we are left with a sense of closure and resolution as Marcus faces the reality of her situation head-on.

Etta Marcus has truly outdone herself with The Death of Summer & Other Promises. Produced by the talented Josh Scarbrow, this mini album is a masterpiece that showcases an incredible blend of alt-rock, dream pop, and indie rock. The songs here are not only diverse in genre but also in how they reflect a remarkable level of vulnerability and emotional depth. 

Listen to The Death of Summer & Other Promises below: