REVIEW: Larker – ‘Romanticide’

Montreal-born artist Larker continues to ascend with the release of his eagerly-awaited debut album ‘Romanticide’, a record of heartbreak turned into art. Fresh from a flurry of impactful releases to date, this new collection plunges into the turbulence of an on-again, off-again relationship, capturing the emotional highs, lows, and the lingering shadows left behind.

Throughout the release, the adventurous variety of his direction is evident. Chord progressions twist and turn, rhythms shift unexpectedly, and melodies deliver punches at every turn. The album’s centrepiece ‘In The Dark’ distills the essence of survival and survivor’s guilt his work has always looked to focus on, highlighting the agony of leaving someone you love, knowing they still rely on you, and conveying it with a rawness that is both intimate and universal.

Self-producing an album of this scope is no small feat, yet Larker navigates the challenges with meticulous care. He re-recorded initial demo ideas over months, dedicating separate blocks of time to instrumentals and vocals, all while avoiding external reference mixes to ensure a fully unfiltered final sound. The result is a cohesive journey where each song flows naturally into the next, creating a narrative arc that mirrors the unpredictability of the relationship at its core.

But it’s the refusal to shy away from complexity that makes ‘Romanticide’ such an immediate listen. Larker balances experimental textures with memorable hooks, delivering an album that is both emotionally intense and musically innovative. It is an exploration of love’s fragility, the pain of letting go, and the quiet triumph of self-preservation. For anyone navigating heartbreak, or simply seeking music that embraces honesty without compromise, Larker offers a bold, unflinching companion.