Photo: Mary Rozzi
Photo: Mary Rozzi

Feist Brings Us All Together On Multitudes

Inspired by her live shows of the same name, the singer-songwriter pens her most intimate offering to date. 

by Michelle Cavaleri

Leslie Feist’s triumphant return to the music scene is marked by the release of her sixth studio album, Multitudes, signalling a new chapter in her illustrious career. Drawing inspiration from the communal experience of her intimate 360 degree 2021-22 live performances where the audience surrounded Feist in a circle as she performed in the centre, the experience allowed the music to flow through the room, creating different textures and sounds that blended together seamlessly. 

Determined to capture this unique experience in her album, Feist enlisted the help of Dolby Atmos technology, creating a life-like journey through song that takes her listeners on a spiritual odyssey. In a recent listening event, Feist opened up about the creation of Multitudes, revealing that it was created after the birth of her daughter and the sudden death of her father, resulting in a range of conflicting emotions. She describes this time as feeling as though she had “nothing performative in me anymore.” However, Feist channelled these raw and vulnerable emotions into the creation of her album, resulting in an otherworldly beautiful piece of art that will undoubtedly stand the test of time.

From the explosive guitar and intense harmonies of opening track, “In Lightning,” to the haunting “Love Who We Are Meant To,” Feist’s album is a masterpiece that showcases her immense talent as a songwriter and performer. The concept of a communal experience is vividly brought to life in “Hiding Out In The Open,” which she describes as akin to a “campfire” sing-along. The song features intricate vocal rounds that seamlessly travel across the room, enveloping the listener in a warm, inclusive embrace. The careful thought and intention put into creating a sense of togetherness is evident in this stunning piece, bringing us one step closer to one of the most iconic songwriters of our time.