Arliston’s new single 'Disappointment Machine' is a poignant addition to the London-based duo’s growing repertoire of deeply introspective tracks. Comprising Jack Ratcliffe (vocalist/instrumentalist) and George Hasbury (instrumentalist/producer), Arliston has been building towards their debut album, 'Disappointment Machine', set for release on February 7, 2025. This title track encapsulates the emotive and contemplative world that Arliston continues to craft, marking them as standout "sad song specialists."
The single delves into the universal, melancholic theme of repeating destructive patterns, resonating deeply with listeners through its vivid songwriting. Ratcliffe’s lyricism is imbued with an aching relatability, capturing the frustration of being trapped in cycles that, despite logic or awareness, seem insurmountable. The idea of trying to "hang one’s problems onto a coat hanger" is as imaginative as it is heartbreaking, showcasing the band’s talent for turning small, personal struggles into larger metaphors.
Musically, 'Disappointment Machine' carries the hallmark traits of Arliston’s sound: lush instrumentation, delicate vocal delivery, and a haunting atmosphere reminiscent of their influences like Bon Iver and The National. The production, crisp and intimate, allows every layer of sound to breathe while amplifying the emotional weight of the lyrics.
The accompanying music video, directed by Meriwether Freya Lewis and produced by Milly Ruston, elevates the song's narrative. Its inventive story follows a monk—played by Cailum Carragher—who steps out of the contemplative silence of his monastery into the chaos of modern life, only to find the connection he seeks remains elusive. Inspired by the Amish Rumspringa tradition, the video perfectly balances humor and introspection, mirroring the track’s duality of emotional vulnerability and philosophical inquiry.
This visual pairing enhances the song’s themes, casting the monk’s journey as a metaphor for the misguided pursuit of connection or fulfillment. Whether chasing goals or relationships, Arliston’s storytelling suggests that these quests often lead to disappointment, yet they’re integral to personal growth.
'Disappointment Machine' also stands as a powerful narrative piece within the album’s broader emotional arc, which transitions from heartbreak to tentative acceptance and hope. This progression gives the song additional context, presenting it not just as a moment of despair, but as a necessary step toward healing.
With their ability to translate liminal, emotionally fraught experiences into exquisite art, Arliston is cementing themselves as one of the most exciting acts in the indie scene. 'Disappointment Machine' is a stirring, beautifully crafted track that invites listeners to reflect on their own patterns, losses, and desires—without ever losing the glimmer of hope that keeps us moving forward.
If this single is any indication of what’s to come, February can’t arrive soon enough.