London-based duo Arliston have made a name for themselves as “sad song specialists,” and their debut album Disappointment Machine (out February 7, 2025) is a powerful testament to their mastery of melancholic storytelling. Centered on the emotional turbulence of late twenties and early thirties, the album explores themes of unrequited love, heartbreak, and the lingering ache of “what if?” It’s an introspective journey through confusion and self-doubt, wrapped in a sparse yet immersive soundscape.
Arliston’s sound, carefully crafted by vocalist/instrumentalist Jack Ratcliffe and producer/multi-instrumentalist George Hasbury, combines minimalist pianos with the haunting allure of gossamer synths. The result is a brooding, cinematic atmosphere that perfectly complements the album’s lyrical vulnerability. Ratcliffe’s baritone, rich with emotion, anchors the album’s introspective tone, allowing listeners to experience the depth of its themes.
“This one of the oldest songs on the album and is the only one written outside of that two-week window in November 2023. It’s a simple narrative about a married couple, who have an argument. One is waiting in the kitchen, “scratching up the table with a knife” (more in an absent-minded way than malicious!), waiting for the other to come back and see the automatic garden light to click on. Having faith that they will come back, but they never do.”
Disappointment Machine offers a cathartic listening experience, where each track is a snapshot of personal reflection. The focus track, ‘Scratches’, is a delicate piano-led piece that captures the fragility of a relationship after an argument. It’s tender, regretful, and painfully beautiful, painting a picture of the aftermath of conflict with stark simplicity.
Arliston’s unique blend of ambient, experimental textures and poignant songwriting will resonate with fans of The National, Bon Iver, and Damien Rice.
Disappointment Machine is an album that balances sorrow with subtle moments of hope and resilience, providing an emotional release for anyone who’s ever grappled with the bittersweet aftermath of love lost.
Stream 'Disappointment Machine' in full here: