The Yeah Yeah Yeahs goddess Karen O has a new song, which is part of her upcoming debut solo album, ‘Crush Songs’. It is simply called ‘Rapt’ and the tune reveals a real vulnerable side of the usually daring frontwoman, since she is singing it with a fragile, almost husky, voice over a totally stripped-down music arrangement. It is nevertheless haunting and strange as the video, directed by her husband Barney Clay, is showing Karen O drowning or holding-her-breath-as-long-as-she-can while the delicate song plays. She is underwater the whole time, wearing a glittering red dress and it is a good thing the song lasts less than 2 minutes. Of course, people have compared the video to PJ Harvey’s ‘Down by the Water’, and they are right.
The song, as the other ones featured on the album, were written nearly a decade ago, and she made an interesting comment about their genesis:
‘When I was 27, I crushed a lot. I wasn’t sure I’d ever fall in love again. These songs were written and recorded in private around this time. They are the soundtrack to what was an ever continuing love crusade. I hope they keep you company on yours.’
‘’Rapt’ is the 2nd song written on this curated collection of crush songs from my personal library. This track is about someone who became a habit that was hard to kick. Thanks to Barney for making this little video happen.’
‘Crush Songs’ is set to be released on September 9th in the US, and September 8th in the UK via the Strokes’ Julian Casablancas’ label, Cult.
