Cornelia Murr and Alice Boman Collaborate on 'Heart of Scorpio'

Written by Lade Onamusi

Cornelia Murr is a remarkably talented British singer-songwriter whose music seamlessly weaves together elements of folk, indie, and dream pop. She released her debut album Lake Tear of the Clouds in 2018, which received critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics and unique musical style. Some of her most notable tracks were "Man on My Mind," "Different This Time," and "Tokyo Kyoto." With a distinctive, ethereal voice and a knack for crafting poetic lyrics, Murr creates a captivating sonic landscape that draws listeners in. Her ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and introspection is truly commendable. 

Alice Boman hails from Sweden and first gained recognition with her debut single "Waiting" in 2013. Her music is characterized by its hauntingly beautiful melodies and delicate, emotive vocals. Boman creates intimate, atmospheric soundscapes that often feature sparse instrumentation, allowing her distinctive voice to take center stage. In 2014, she released her EP EP II to critical acclaim, further establishing her as a prominent figure in the indie folk and dream pop scenes. Her music is often associated with themes of introspection, longing, and emotional vulnerability.

While the two have been known to be fans of each other’s work, Heart of Scorpio is their first official project together. 

In this latest single, Murr invites the listener in on her deepest thoughts of her own star-crossed lover. The twinkling, arpeggiating melody comes in instantly, putting you in a sort of limbo with her. She tells the well-known story of regret and longing for a love that she let pass her by. She masterfully paints the picture of a celestial oasis where she and her lost lover still remain, filled with all the potential of when they first met.

Murr’s intent in the project is especially evident within the title Heart of Scorpio, which refers to Antares, the brightest star of the Scorpio constellation.The big red star can be seen on the single’s cover art, illuminating the faces of Murr and Boman. In astrology, Antares, which translates to 'like Mars,' is often associated with the qualities of the planet; these include passion, desire, and a warrior mentality. With lyrics like "I’ll find you always / The Heart of Scorpio / Red in the summer night / I’ll never let you go," you feel her unwillingness to accept the current state of their relationship and her determination to hold on to what they had. She sings it almost like an anthem, keeping up her fight against the forces that continue to keep them apart.

The melody is comprised of bright, nostalgic synths, arpeggiating notes, subtle saxophone ornamentation, and percussion. The beautiful, dreamy piece seems to take inspiration from 70s 80s synth pop and manages to give you a retro feel that makes you want to rollerskate slowly under disco lights. The sound is easily alternative by today's standards, most comparable to artists like Beach House, The Marías, and Weyes Blood.

The duo have already performed their first live performance of the single at Servant Jazz Quarters in London where they were met with great applause from the crowd. 

Heart of Scorpio is a beautiful testament to the magic that happens when artists collaborate. Their artistry intertwines seamlessly, forging a sonic experience that resonates on a profound emotional level, sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who hears it.