As an earnest expression of the soul, Not Your Muse is an evocative journey of love that you can wholeheartedly surrender yourself to, in all its modern jazz, pop and R&B glory. Celeste’s debut album is a contemplative exploration of desire as well as an attempt to establish a clear narrative of who she is, and more importantly, who she isn’t.
On my summer evening walks, I found myself warmly entangled in each love letter she has crafted, coating me in a confidence that allowed me to admit the feelings I’m often too afraid to voice. “Beloved” is reflective of this – a whimsical ode to your (potential) sweetheart and a sonic ascension into total euphoria, where being blinded by love isn’t foolish but wholly encouraged. The slower, moodier tracks on the album will allow you to gently float in your own musings, especially with “Strange”. That track is a haunting story of loss that left me pondering over a relationship I no longer have – feeling solemn, but certainly not as lonely anymore. “Ideal Woman” is also comforting, and an important moment for Celeste to declare that she couldn’t care less about meeting anyone else’s standards – a message that I’d like to incorporate into my own life.
The outpouring of love and insight on Not Your Muse is unmistakable, and something to completely immerse yourself in. In doing so, you might even stumble upon glimpses of yourself in this record, and if that’s the case – embrace it.
“A timeless gem.”
