dodie - Not for Want of Trying

      For over ten years, North London-born artist dodie has utilized her music as a personal diary, exploring themes of mental health, adolescence, and complicated relationships. Transitioning from YouTuber to musician in 2016, she already had a substantial following; now at 29, she continues to navigate through uncertainty in her songwriting. ‘Not For Lack of Trying’ showcases dodie evolving her confessional singer-songwriter approach into expansive orchestral arrangements, adding depth and warmth. The cinematic orchestral introduction to the chorus of ‘I’M FINE’ stands out, as does the vibrant backdrop of ‘Different’, which is so lively it could be a standalone piece. In contrast, ‘Now’ is minimalistic, with layered harmonies gradually constructing the track, while the minor-key harmonies of ‘Hold Tight’ impart a ghostly atmosphere. ‘I Feel Bad For You, Dave’ pays homage to bossa nova in a style reminiscent of beabadoobee’s ‘The Perfect Pair’, featuring humorous lyrics that cleverly critique the modern man: “Lets everyone know that he can do a push-up / Then he’ll do a pushup”. While this approach is effective here, it falters in ‘Darling, Angel, Baby’. This tribute to her cat Mrs offers a moment of warmth in a tumultuous album, yet its overly sentimental lyrics (“You’re such a cool cat”, “She likes her edamame”) threaten to overshadow it. Throughout the album, subtle instrumental details emerge with multiple listens, although some remain too hidden. Additionally, the lush production sometimes overwhelms her delicate vocals (‘The Answer’, ‘Hold Fire’). The album concludes with a sense of determination despite the uncertainty: “Lend me joy, I can’t see mine / But not for lack of trying”. It resonates as a quiet declaration: evidence that even in challenging times, she perseveres.

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