SOTW: Alice Phoebe Lou – “Shelter”

July 28th, 2023 by Liz Kosik

by Liz Kosik ’25

Song of the Week: Alice Phoebe Lou – “Shelter”

Released: March 2023

Rate: 8/10

RIYL: Faye Webster, Nico, Lucy Dacus, Alvvays, Haley Heynderickx

Alice Phoebe Lou is a singer-songwriter known for her soft vocals and resonant lyrics. Born and raised in the coastal town of Kommetjie, South Africa, Alice’s love for music began at a young age. Her adventurous spirit led her to Berlin, where she found creative freedom and a community of like-minded artists.

Lou released her full-length album “Orbit” in 2016, which solidified her reputation as a rising star. Alice’s music weaves a tapestry of folk, blues, and indie elements, with introspective lyrics that reflect themes of love, growth, and self-discovery. A true nomad at heart, she continues to explore the world and draw inspiration from diverse cultures, infusing her music with a sense of wonder. With each song she shares, Alice Phoebe Lou invites listeners into her intimate world.

Alice Pheobe Lou takes us through a short story of self-awareness and realization. Lou’s recent single, “Shelter” positively contributes to her discography. She composes the track around her ability to be vulnerable, sharing the secrets that provide inspiration to her lyrics. Lou touches upon several topics within “Shelter”, each landing in the reality of learning how to take care of yourself. She sings of the “ghosts she chased into alleys” and times she has believed the labels placed on her.

Lou’s message of “coming home to yourself” is particularly interesting in her acknowledgment that this may look different for everyone. I especially loved the opening lyrics as she describes the childlike activities of picking flowers and daydreaming about someone, despite the cold facade you may wear. This is the first track of Lou’s I have heard, as she honorary resembles the sounds of Faye Webster and Men I Trust. Definitely recommend!