Charlie Cunningham
British singer-songwriter Charlie Cunningham returns with In Light, his fourth album. A work that delves into his personal and creative consciousness like never before. Following the success of Frame in 2023, Cunningham embarks on a musical journey that seeks to capture the essence of human creativity in an age dominated by artificial intelligence. The result is an honest and deeply moving album which confirms Cunningham as one of the most genuine artists of his generation.
In Light is a testament to Cunningham’s quest for authenticity. It was recorded in Tottenham over five weeks and consists of ten songs captured in single takes with minimal editing, giving the entire album a sense of fluidity and spontaneity. This artistic decision aligns with Cunningham’s philosophy: in a world where technology threatens to homogenize artistic expression, he embraces imperfection and vulnerability as essential and characteristic elements of humanity.
The album features tracks like ‘This House’, a sweet and emotional single that explores the concept of being receptive to the energy and history of a location, highlighting how spaces can influence our emotions. In ‘Shape of Tomorrow’, Cunningham addresses the unsettling control of data in our lives. It’s a song that resonates in a world where attention is constantly monetized. Still, Cunningham doesn’t give in to pessimism. In ‘This I Know’, he sings with hope, reminding us that the light always finds its way despite the shadows. In ‘New Symmetry’, he concludes with optimism and an invitation to keep going even when the path seems uncertain.
The album was produced by Luke Smith – known for his work with Foals and Depeche Mode – and it’s a subtle yet dynamic intervention, with arrangements that respond instinctively to Cunningham’s voice. Pulsating guitars, unexpected key changes, and atmospheric touches create a perfect backdrop for lyrics that oscillate between personal introspection and social commentary.
The album title, In Light, reflects the duality in which Cunningham doesn’t ignore the complexities and darkness of the world, but chooses to focus on the light that persists. Musically, In Light is a masterpiece of balance. The guitars – heavily influenced by his time in Seville studying flamenco – intertwine with a production that sounds organic and pulsating. The collaboration with Leo Abrahams (Brian Eno, Anohni) adds layers of texture, while drummer Liam Hutton provides a subtle yet essential groove. The result is an album that flows like a river, taking the listener through emotional landscapes ranging from melancholy to euphoria.
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