Kue Varo and the Only Hopes have released their second record, How Everything Feels and Other Lies, an album that delves into profound themes about existence and perception. The album's journey began with a guitar riff that eventually became the track Stars Are Dripping.
From Guitar Riff to Philosophical Centerpiece
Stars Are Dripping serves as a musically ambitious and lyrically heavy centerpiece for the album. The song, which evokes early Sinead O'Connor or Florence and the Machine, was sparked by a guitar part brought to Varo by Calgary guitarist and producer Russell Broom. Broom, known for his work with Jann Arden and Art Bergmann, co-produced the album and collaborated on songwriting. Varo explains that hearing the music immediately inspired her to write, drawing on ideas she had been contemplating for years.
The Concept Behind the Music
The song explores the origins of life and what happens after death, based on a philosophy Varo derived from ancient myths, new age ideas, and science. It deals with atoms being reused and existence being recycled. Varo describes a visceral experience of looking at the stars and feeling as though the light was dripping into her eyes, a moment that inspired the song's title and theme.
The album's lyrics are based on a series of essays Varo wrote over the past couple of years. These essays offer philosophical, sometimes satirical insights into how life feels, contrasting with logical or realistic perspectives. Varo explains that she took inspiration from books, world events, and personal development, transforming non-poetic writings into artistic metaphors.
Evolution from Debut Album
This creative process differed from that of the band's 2023 debut, Cowboy Witchcraft, which also featured genre-hopping melodies and catchy hooks. That album came together after Varo returned to Calgary from Montreal, following a period of personal upheaval including a breakup and the death of a close friend. She adopted the name Kue Varo, a blend of the Star Trek character Q and surrealist painter Remedios Varo, signaling a new artistic identity. With the Only Hopes, she entered OCL Studios with Broom and a collection of song skeletons that became Cowboy Witchcraft.
How Everything Feels and Other Lies continues Varo's exploration of big ideas, blending philosophical depth with accessible indie-pop. The album is now available, offering listeners a chance to ponder life's mysteries through Varo's unique lens.
