Labrador – Paths (2026)
The product of hundreds of hours of shifting, shaping, sauntering through various musical styles to find that spot that, as Labrador puts it, “…feels truly my own”. The space between light and dark, fluid and stagnant, organic and synthetic, celebrating life, love and all the unspeakable moments in between. The solo project of Norwegian singer-songwriter Dag Arild Synøvesønn Mæhlum, Labrador is emotional, reflective, offering people comfort, solace, and a place where you know someone gets it. Join us as we jump into his debut single, ‘Paths’.
Opening with a sweep of synths, the stage is set for soothing, soft and almost glistening enchantment. Electronic, but charming and gentle, kind of like drifting into a dark forest on a twinkling, glassy river where fairies dance. Yet, amidst those fairies, the river has an organic, real, almost raw feeling. Organic drums and a bassline push the boat across, while those fairies continue to flit about. The weaving of the percussion wave from the willow trees, and the horns creep out of the twinkling glow. It’s not forceful, but somehow those organic elements enhance a sense of vulnerability, honesty and something real beyond the mist of twinkling lights.
Written and produced by Labrador, with mixing and mastering by Mike Schmid, ‘Paths’ is a song of duality and contrast; not merely in the waft of light and dark in the track, but also in the weighty, poignant lyricism. Labrador explains:
“It explores what stays with us: the visible and invisible traces left by love, loss and everything in between. The lines we carry – not just on our faces, but with us. Some shaped by grief, others by moments of lightness and connection. It’s about how experiences – people, places, even animals – leave lasting imprints. Some fade, others become part of who we are.”
So, overall, what is my opinion of ‘Paths’? It certainly takes you on a musical journey, with expansive distance and a clasp of closeness, and Sonny Edwards’ vocals up the ante slightly. This, as is the case with all, is my introduction to Labrador. I look forward to more from the artist.
Find out more about Labrador on his official website, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
Listen to more indie-pop music on The Other Side Reviews Indie Pop playlist:
