Athena Lim’s “Madrid” feels like stepping into a bittersweet daydream—a quiet stroll through memory and melody, set against the fading glow of a Madrid sunset. Dropping as the second single from her upcoming debut LP, this indie-folk gem builds on the eclectic foundation she laid with her Hello Frances EP, and it doesn’t disappoint.
From the very first notes, “Madrid” casts its spell. The ticking beat pulls you in, setting a soft, rhythmic pulse that’s both soothing and hypnotic. Shimmering piano lines and writhing strings add a lush depth to the track, while Lim’s delicate, airy vocals float effortlessly above, like a lullaby for the soul. She sings with a vulnerability that’s equal parts haunting and mesmerizing, her voice carrying the weight of longing as she asks, “Were you real, or baby, were you just a dream?”
The lyrics read like poetry—wistful and reflective, capturing fleeting memories of a love that feels just out of reach. Lines like “The sun is setting on Madrid / Fading rays wash the rooftops” evoke vivid imagery, while the raw refrain “You were reckless and raw, so beautifully flawed” gives the song an emotional edge that resonates deeply.
Produced by James Atin-Godden, “Madrid” perfectly showcases Lim’s unique blend of indie-folk and pop influences, with subtle nods to her eclectic tastes in blues, jazz, and gospel. The result is a sound that feels fresh yet timeless, intimate yet grand.
Athena Lim’s “Madrid” is a song for late-night reflections and quiet moments, for anyone who’s ever held onto a memory just a little too tightly, only to feel it slipping away.
With her debut album set for 2025, Athena Lim proves she’s an artist to watch.
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Review by: Naomi Joan