The concept of duality is always a fascinating theme for musicians. Many bands have dived head first into exploring the contrasting nature of human nature. Pink Floyd  did with Poles Apart. Billy Joel with The stranger. Nine inch nails could write a thesis on the subject with The Fragile.

Bat for Lashes’ sophomore album, Two Suns, grabs the concept of duality and weaves an intricate study. Natasha Khan is in conflict with Pearl, a facsimile of hers who is her opposite. Written as a way to deal with a massive break up, Two Suns uses pain and uncertainty as the easel and oil with which Khan achieved catharsis.

The album made the rounds on indie blogs and got its deserved praise. It’s a little forgotten now, even if its relevance is evergreen. I keep listening to it because I felt a deep connection to Khan’s lyrical work. As any good album that finds a place in your heart, I listened to it while going through a bad phase, and saw her live at the Octagon in Sheffield, back in 2009. That show was a keeper and even met Ms. Khan at bungalows and bears. For someone of her rank on the music industry, she was super friendly and patient.

Siren song feels like the pivoting point of Two Suns. It’s Pearl’s confessional and the smooth ballad goes through several emotions, climaxing and leaving a hole as wide as her soul.

-Sam J. Valdés López