Arlo Parks, the acclaimed musician, has recently released her third album, 'Ambiguous Desire', which marks a significant shift in her musical style. In this interview, she opens up about her journey, from her early days as a solo artist to her newfound love for the nightlife and dance music. Parks, who has lived in LA since 2022, reflects on her past experiences and how they've shaped her artistic evolution.
From Solo Artist to Nightlife Enthusiast
Arlo Parks, born Anaïs Marinho, burst onto the music scene with her debut album, 'Collapsed in Sunbeams', which showcased her confessional and clear-eyed alt-pop style. However, her latest album takes a different turn, blending elements of house, techno, and UK garage with her ethereal vocals. This transformation is partly due to her newfound appreciation for the nightlife, which she had previously overlooked.
'I never had those deep chats in the smoking area,' she says, emphasizing the sense of community and anonymity that clubs offer. Parks' new album is a testament to her desire to embrace the late-night life and explore the world of dance music. She spent two years immersing herself in the club scene, crate-digging, and collaborating with producers, resulting in a collection of songs that capture the essence of the nightlife.
A Musical Evolution
The album's sound is a departure from her earlier work, with Parks describing it as a natural evolution of her artistic expression. She explains that the process was less about consciously leaning into dance music and more about embracing the life she was living in the States. Parks' relationship with the singer Ashnikko ended in 2024, and she found solace and inspiration in the vibrant club scene of New York City.
'I was falling in love with somebody, and hanging out with her friends and some of my friends as well in New York,' she recalls. Parks' frequent visits to clubs like Basement and Nowadays, both known for their techno and marathon raves, exposed her to a new world of music and culture. She studied the history of New York's nightlife, from Paradise Garage to Studio 54, and drew inspiration from the greats, including MF Doom and Sylvia Plath.
Queer Desire and Community
'Ambiguous Desire' also explores the themes of queer desire and community, with Parks embracing her sexuality and the freedom that comes with it. The album's lead single, '2SIDED', is a steamy and candid expression of her feelings, capturing the essence of Arlo Parks' candour and vulnerability. Parks believes that clubs have always been a safe space for the queer community, allowing people to connect and express themselves freely.
'Historically, clubs have provided this refuge for people who feel like outsiders or aliens for any reason, to come together and find a sense of peace and connection,' she says. Parks' own journey as a queer artist has shaped her understanding of the nightlife and its significance in fostering a sense of belonging.
A Musical Journey Continues
Despite the album's departure from her earlier work, Parks remains true to her artistic identity. She emphasizes that her fans are still a crucial part of her music, and she aims to give them hope, release, and a space to be themselves. With 'Ambiguous Desire', she has created a dance album that pays homage to the nightlife and her personal growth.
'I think it’s more important than ever to do good where you can, and it’s not lost on me that so much of my work and my job is giving people hope or a sliver of release or a space to just be,' she says. Parks' music continues to inspire and captivate her fans, offering a unique blend of personal vulnerability and danceable beats.
