Neon Grey Midnight Green

Neko Case

Ashley Sudeta

The release of “Neon Grey Midnight Green" was like a reminder for me to check in with Neko Case to see if her music still matches my memory. I received confirmation instantly. She still sings like a sad dog. Her voice overflows with heart, bordering on a “warble” or “wail,” only smoother and clearer. The lyrics make poetry from the mundane. The melody moves easily, like the weightless moment in a sprint before nausea catches up. Still absolutely, heart-wrenchingly beautiful.

  Case spins pure emotion from the first track. “Destination” sinks a strange sort of melancholy-joy into my gut. The lyrics have me laying on the floor. “Oh I… I’m gonna live a real life. With blood and dirt and the subway for dessert.” My limbs splayed across the carpet, I can pick apart the oboe, piano chords, guitar, Case’s vocals. I couldn’t pick a favorite part if you paid me.

Late September was the perfect time for release. It’s an autumn album all the way through. The sound is warm and comforting like an old sweater. Occasional bright swells are reminiscent of the sun’s last glimpses before winter. To the core “Neon Grey Midnight Green” is another soulful masterpiece from Neko Case. I don’t care how you do it—laying on your bedroom floor, twirling in the early autumn air, sitting on the bus—give this album a listen.