The EP is part of a five-album storyline, which includes characters that have grown and developed within each album, and every song on “Machine Living in Relief” goes into the mind of one of these characters. The EP opens up with “Sooner or Later,” which starts with an upbeat melody. As the song continues, the once upbeat tune is overshadowed by a melancholic gloom, emphasized by Harris’s vocals and bittersweet lyrics. The lyric, “Throw me away; I’m not supposed to mind at all,” is a strong one–possibly showcasing that robotic emotions will always be overtaken by human ones, even if AI continues to gain power.
“Chemical Fire” is a folksy, blues track that resonates with a melancholic undertone, underscoring these emotive connections. Following this is “The Nail Beside the Door,” a heart-wrenching tune about heartbreak and yearning for a lost loved one. This further proves the humane emotions of lust and longing for another person, which doesn’t go away even with growing technology. “Casual Violence” starkly points to the violence that is pervading our society, evoking a sense of shared concern within the human race.
According to E.W. Harris’ album takes place in “…New York City, 250 years in the post-apocalyptic future,”“But all the buildings have been replaced by rocket ships that never took off. It’s my Neverland, Star Wars expanded universe, or Narnia, I guess you could say. I wanted a place to tell exciting and compelling stories that didn’t have to be burdened with my own everyday existence.”
“Machine Living in Relief” is out now on all major music streaming platforms. Take a listen today!
