The Veils Explore Life’s Depths with Asphodels

A Journey Into the Soul

Review By Glen Parkes

Swiftly following 2023’s …And Out Of The Void Came Love, Asphodels, the latest album from The Veils, solidifies Finn Andrews as one of the most poetic and introspective voices in modern music.

Released via V2 Records, this nine-track record draws its name from the mythological Greek flower associated with the Underworld, setting the tone for an album steeped in themes of love, death, and self-reflection. With lush string arrangements by Victoria Kelly and lyrics inspired by literary greats like Federico García Lorca, Ted Hughes, and Louis MacNeice, Asphodels is a masterclass in combining lyrical depth with sweeping musicality.

From the opening notes, it’s clear that Asphodels is an intimate and carefully crafted work. Finn Andrews’ haunting vocals lead the listener through a series of vignettes that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable. The album opens with Asphodels, a track that sets a brooding soulful tone, as Andrews reflects on the nature of life and the inevitability of change.

The centerpiece of the album, I for me is the dream of life , sees The Veils at their best . The arrangements shine here, weaving a rich tapestry that supports the ’ poignant storytelling. The lyrics, are inspired and, explore themes of longing and entrapment with stunning clarity. One of the defining features of Asphodels is its poetic approach to songwriting. lyrics that read like stanzas from a classic poem, filled with vivid imagery and emotional weight. with Tracks that serve as direct nods to the literary figures who inspired the album, blending the timelessness of their words with modern musical arrangements. Musically, the album strikes a delicate balance between intimacy and grandeur. adding layers of emotion that elevate each song to new heights.

At its core, Asphodels is an exploration of love and loss, but it also delves into the idea of finding solace in the midst of life’s trials. the album as a private reckoning, and that sentiment is palpable throughout. Whether he’s lamenting the passage of time grappling with mortality , his vulnerability draws the listener into a shared emotional space. What makes Asphodels so impactful is its cohesion. Each track flows seamlessly into the next, creating a narrative arc that feels intentional and complete. Asphodels is a triumph for The Veils. It’s an album that demands to be experienced as a whole, inviting the listener into a world that is as poetic as it is poignant. the ability to channel literary influences into music that feels timeless yet deeply personal is a rare gift, and with the help of stunning arrangements, they have created a record that resonates on both an emotional and intellectual level.

This is an album for those who love music that makes you think, feel, and reflect—a powerful reminder of the enduring beauty found in both life’s brightest and darkest moments.