ASTER RHYS - Crossroads

On Rotation: Aster Rhys "Crossroads"

Folk singer-songwriter Aster Rhys continues to captivate audiences with her enchanting and introspective music, as evidenced by her latest release, "Crossroads." This poignant track, marks the second single from her upcoming EP, Four Directions, and delves deeply into themes of fate, spirituality, and life's uncertain journey. With its lush folk instrumentation and poetic storytelling, "Crossroads" is a song that resonates with listeners on both emotional and spiritual levels.

Inspired by a deeply personal experience, Aster wrote "Crossroads" after a long estrangement from an ex-partner. The song began to take shape during a road trip from Michigan to New Hampshire, where a stop at Lake Erie sparked the creative process. The lyrics vividly depict the imagery of the road, with yellow and white lines serving as metaphors for navigating life’s uncertainties. Aster beautifully captures the spiritual significance of crossroads as transformative spaces, where pivotal decisions are made and unseen forces guide us through life’s most profound moments.

"Crossroads" is a reflection of the broader thematic exploration that Aster Rhys is embarking on with her Four Directions EP. The EP draws inspiration from ancient spiritual traditions, with each track representing one of the four elements Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. In this single, Aster taps into the restless, searching energy of Air, evoking feelings of suspension and uncertainty as one stands at the threshold of change. The spiritual undertones in her lyrics, combined with the ethereal melodies, create a deeply resonant experience for the listener.

Musically, "Crossroads" is a rich, textured arrangement of acoustic guitar, flutes, drums, bass, and accordion. These elements combine to create a sound that is grounded in folk traditions while also embracing spiritual exploration. Fans of Basia Bulat and Bat For Lashes will appreciate Aster’s unique blend of introspective lyrics and dreamlike melodies. Her ability to merge the past with the present drawing on her multiracial heritage and ancestral memory gives her music a timeless quality that feels both familiar and new.

As Aster herself explains, “‘Crossroads’ is a call to change... It’s about that moment when the only thing clear before you is a road, and whatever choice you make will shape your future. The song speaks to the feeling of intuition, when you're suspended between reality and a lucid dream.” Her ability to capture such an elusive and powerful experience is a testament to her skill as a songwriter and storyteller.

With "Crossroads," Aster Rhys has once again proven that she is an artist to watch. This single builds anticipation for her full Four Directions EP, which promises to take listeners on a profound journey through the intersections of fate, choice, and the natural elements. As Aster continues to explore these deeply personal and spiritual themes, her music offers a reflective and emotionally charged experience that leaves a lasting impact.