‘Utopia (the industry)’ is such a fresh, lively, and intriguing piece of music, I think I just listened to it five times in a row. Courtesy of Chicago-based singer/songwriter and producer Kira Leadholm, who performs under the moniker Madame Reaper & the Gentlemen’s Club, the eclectic and synth-filled tune effortlessly blends diverse influences.
Moving from baroque touches to playful bubblegum pop, and featuring instruments like the oboe and double bass, it truly is as much a track as it is a bold exploration of sound and style. Think Sufjan Stevens…or Mitski.
“I was feeling frustrated with the political precedent of business as usual and the narrative of American exceptionalism,” says Kira when asked about the meaning behind the tune. “I wanted to write a song that sonically reflected the tension between the ‘American utopia” touted by politicians and the reality experienced by the public”.
A self-described vampire synth-pop champion, Madame Reaper is currently gearing up for the release of her sophomore full-length album. And, while she’d still be considered a relative newcomer, her reach and popularity would beg to differ. We can’t wait to hear more from this supremely gifted boundary-pushing artist.
Serious tune alert! Enjoy ‘Utopia (the industry)’ on Spotify now:
