Emma Russack: In A New State

The album’s lyrics are largely centred on Russack becoming more self-reliant, and in the process you gain a deep understanding of her personal life – from the highs and lows of her romances to her feelings towards her New South Wales hometown and adopted home of Melbourne.

‘Cottesloe’ reminisces on times spent floating in the ocean, pairing these memories with intricate guitar work and a bubbling synth. ‘If You Could See Me Now’ appears to be a snide message to an ex-lover, with Russack delving into her lack of a sex life over the last six months. But rather than expressing frustration, she appears content and says she doesn’t need to have sex for self-validation.

‘Have You’ looks at the contradictions that characterise a relationship, steadily building up to a crescendo before the song abruptly ends. But any disappointment is appeased by ‘Best Love’. It explores at the relationship a 16-year-old Russack had with an adult man, documenting the new world she was exposed to, along with her family’s disapproval. Paired with a charming instrumental accompaniment, Russack manages to perfectly capture the naivety of teenage love.

Russack appears to be at peace with her place in the world and never plagued by the doubts that afflict most people of a similar age.

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