Experimental/contemporary singer/songwriter A.G. Sully shares with us her new project Premonition of Rain, a 9-track body of work that explores the different phases of her life over some time. The production varies widely from acoustic to dark synth-driven sounds that blend dark pop, and modern contemporary soul with an edgy vibe.

“Premonition of Rain” sets the tone with a dreamy piano arrangement underpinned by slightly airy vocal runs and sublime harmonies that slowly rise as the track progresses and trails off into an ethereal end. The overall feeling of solemnity and hope are the driving elements of this track. This is followed by “You Memorabilia” comprising plucky synths and rapid drums.  A.G Sully details emotional trepidation and a bit of reflection with lines like “Alone and afraid, and I pushed you away and just the other day I found an old love letter”  as she recalls her past lover and the interconnected memories between them. The track is as dynamic as they come and the switch up in the middle part taps into her changing emotions and coming to terms with her lot and the loss. This leads into “I don’t wanna Be Your Girlfriend”, a heartfelt ballad bolstered by a soulful acoustic guitar pluck and ethereal piano riffs. Here, she unapologetically states her feelings and pleads with her lover to understand her position in the fledgling relationship.  A.G Sully sounds a bit content and resolved in her stance while offering a plausible way out of the impending drama.

On tracks like “Temporary Space”, “Autumn’s Dreamland” and “Friend of My Dreams”, she offers different sides to her persona and shows growth from her experiences in life. Temporary Space” captures her free spirit and open-mindedness while “Autumn’s Dreamland” explores the concept of finding one’s true voice and the power of proper communication.  “Friend of My Dreams” is a brilliant reflective tune that employs barebones soundscapes beginning with slick guitar licks that soar into a crescendo as the brooding pads and off-kilter instruments come into play. The song itself talks about growth, self-love and finding true validation within without being on the nose and it’s a brilliant showcase of engaging and poignant songwriting.

The project closes out on a reflective and sombre note with the experimental dark pop aesthetics of “January 19” and “Life is changing and it’s changing me”. The former uses off-beat and dynamic musical arrangement comprising slick synths, moody pads and slow-rising strings underpinned by A.G Sully’s airy melodic runs while the latter dives into the singer’s current disposition and breaks down the changes and phases that have culminated in this point. She admits that things have changed and more importantly she is no longer who she was.  It’s far from being rueful but rather an acknowledgement of the reality she has to prepare for.

Overall, Premonition of Rain is a progressive and relatable body of work that gives audiences a candid look at how reality changes people in subtle ways but more importantly, shows the process of being aware and coming to terms with the idea.