Lizzy McAlpine’s new single, ‘The light in the painting’, is a wholesome depiction of a new and hopeful relationship. Her angelic vocals combined with the stunning visuals throughout the new music video create all the elements for a perfect love song.

The lead single of McAlpine’s fourth album ‘Angel’, set to be released next month on September 18th, it is a departure from her previously melancholic singles, although intimacy and vulnerability are still ever-present. 

Directed by Neema Sadeghi alongside McAlpine herself, the video has a peaceful combination of soft colouring and lighting alongside glimpses of McAlpine’s relationship with a faceless male partner. The video prioritises emotional presence rather than a dramatised plot by showing how everyday and simple events can seem beautiful when consumed by a new connection. 

One of the opening lines of the single, “you are the light in the painting / that my eye is drawn to first”, immediately emphasises the emotional bond demonstrated through the music video. Unlike other music videos focused on romantic elements, it has an essence of privacy and is the perfect melodic transition into her new era. 

Despite being a song focused on a new relationship, the video has McAlpine as the focal point throughout. This directorial choice allows us to see the love through McAlpine’s gaze, once again showing her vulnerability to her fans. The warming visuals of the video combined with her melodic voice make the song almost heavenly, further hinted through the lyric “if somewhere there is a heaven / this is as close as I will get”.

With its calming energy and artistic imagery, the video is a perfect introduction to the essence of her new album. 

Ella Clarke

@ellaclarkexo

Image: ‘The light in the painting’ Official Single Cover

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