Liv Eli is an emerging, Norwegian artist, who cites David Bowie, Radiohead, The Smile, Massive Attack, Ane Brun and a list of others. Although she has songwriting experience in previous musical efforts, as solo artist songwriting not only reflects a rich tapestry of inspirations but a much deeper exploration of songwriting. “After so many years, I have finally allowed myself to immerse myself in this side of my life.”

Eli’s upcoming album The Struggle For Peace Of Mind thematically sees the Norwegian artist delving into the profound impact of life’s coincidences and conflicting choices on one’s quest for inner harmony and peace. Last month, I wrote about “Goodbye Innocence,” a cinematic and dramatic bit of pop built around glistening synth arpeggios, gated reverb-soaked percussion and twinkling keys paired with Eli’s expressive and melodic delivery. Seemingly indebted to Kate Bush, Tori Amos and Massive Attack, “Goodbye Innocence” tells a story about the grave consequences of a life-altering decision that shatters preconceived notions of goodness and justice to reveal a life overshadowed by insecurity and constant vigilance. 

The Struggle For Peace Of Mind’s latest single “17 Million Fucking Files” is anchored around a shimmering and arpeggiated synth melody, skittering beats serving as a broodingly cinematic vehicle for the Norwegian artist’s expressive and earnest delivery, singing lyrics that paint a lived-in portrait of a heartbroken and desperate person yearning for peace and harmony in a tempestuous life. But there’s a tacit understanding that the peace and harmony the song’s narrator desperately longs for may be out of reach.

“Yes, the lyrics are about myself. It’s probably due to a mix of personality, lifestyle, and habits that are hard to break out of. But, I know that many people feel the same way, something I believe is a symptom of the times we live in,” Liv Eli says.