Los Angeles-based producer Shallou has unveiled his latest EP, titled “The Long Way Home,” via the esteemed FADER Label. This EP delves into Shallou’s personal journey, as he candidly addresses his diagnosis of OCD and shares his triumphant experience of shedding the weight of anxiety and depression that once burdened him.
“The Long Way Home” not only provided Shallou with a sanctuary to escape into but also gifted listeners with a powerful and resonant collection of tracks. Through this project, Shallou channeled his fears and anxieties, allowing him to nurture his own mental well-being while revealing the struggles he faced in the past year. The EP has become a poignant representation of these challenges, with Shallou articulating, “The isolation during quarantine and the gradual decline of society and nature drove me to seek a sort of ‘holy land,’ a place where I could find relaxation and safety. Amidst it all, the Long Way Home EP encapsulates a theme of hope, of emerging from the darkest times.”
The EP commences with “Corners,” a track written in March 2021 that symbolizes the rediscovery of hope. The vibrant and kaleidoscopic soundscape serves as a radiant beam of light, inviting listeners into Shallou’s world—a heartfelt invitation that should be eagerly accepted by those in the know. “High Tides” follows, featuring hypnotic waves of electronic pulses adorned with iridescent elements. Its house-infused textures evoke a sensation of newfound freedom. “Heartaches” further extends Shallou’s entrancing house melodies, while “Here” provides a gateway for listeners to immerse themselves in the warm waters of his distinctive indie-tronica style. This track, a soothing blend of electronic nuances accompanied by majestic vocals, is a testament to the atmospheric bliss Shallou creates.
The EP concludes with the elegant piano-ballad “Pacifica,” where Shallou seems to make a personal commitment to support his own mental well-being, ensuring he’ll be there to cushion any moments of slipping back into darkness. The powerful sonic arrangement presents a moment of triumph and reflection on his strength, with the added sounds of birds tweeting offering a sense of renewal—a fleeting realization that the future appears bright when one is still part of it.
Shallou shares the origin of the EP: “It all began as an homage to Pacifica, a town near San Francisco that I visited, where I felt a deep inner peace, allowing me to embrace the past few years of my career fully. The town reminds me of my childhood visits to southern Maine; the ocean gently caresses large rock formations, and the town exudes a serene and tranquil vibe.” He continues, “During the challenges brought by COVID, I experienced intense mental struggles—I was diagnosed with OCD, and anxiety and depression dominated my life. In 2021, working on this new music provided me with a safe haven, much like Pacifica and the comfort of home.”
SHE Media aptly describes “The Long Way Home” as a collection of melodic tracks adorned with sparkling hooks and Shallou’s distinctive vocals, forming a seamless five-track masterpiece. This heartfelt EP is built on a foundation of personal resilience and the ability to conquer mental obstacles. It offers a beautiful glimpse into the mind of an exceptionally creative artist.
“The Long Way Home” is now available through FADER Label, inviting everyone to experience Shallou’s musical journey. For those looking to connect, Shallou can be found on Spotify, Twitter, and Instagram, providing an opportunity to engage with his unique artistry.
