Carol Rhyu’s independent project, White Blush, continues to grow and is well worth the listen this summer while you welcome warm winds and cool sheets. White Blush’s most recent EP, Loves Park, is one you’ll want to know sooner than later for its sheer simplicity and natural beauty. Rest and relaxation accompanies this EP.
Loves Park opens with “Wish,” featuring Rhyu’s signature airy voice and synthesizers. The ambient sounds are intensified by soft whispers and are untainted by harsh effects. Among the liveliest pieces are “Summer,” “Neptune,” and “Mysterieux.” The quickest way to get my attention and my hidden dance secrets is with a light 80’s synthesizer, prevalent in “Summer.” I can easily imagine “Summer” playing at a swanky nightclub somewhere – not sure how the dancing would look, but I would try it.
“Neptune” exhibits a somewhat ominous sound with reverb guitar effects and rhythmic bass sounds that mimic drumbeats. Finally, “Mysterieux” ends the EP with Rhyu’s captivating synths. There was something familiar about “Mysterieux” when I listened to it, as if I had come across it on Stereomood months ago. It is always when I hear a song the second time that my ears naturally decide if they like it or not, and “Mysterieux” was accepted, its origin a literal mystery.
Loves Park will most likely be making an appearance on my playlist as I drive home from work during these summer afternoons. Loves Park radiates and encourages meditation and thoughtfulness essential for the long, hot summer to come.
Nikki grew up in an imitation German town in Georgia by the name of Helen. It wasn’t until middle school that she started to get interested in the arts: painting, music, and writing. She wrote in her diary, sketched in art class and listened to regretful music. By high school, her tastes became a little more refined. She found Fiona Apple, Lou Reed and Giant Drag, and they remain her favorites in college. She was accepted to the University of Georgia in 2012 and is currently majoring in English. Upon moving to Athens from a town with more trees than people, Nikki was a bit overwhelmed. However, there is certainly no lack of inspiration in Athens, and she appreciates its love for the arts and its service as a platform.