With the new year just around the corner and the promise of new beginnings—political or otherwise—on the near horizon, it’s comforting to imagine that there’s at least some light at the end of this dark tunnel that has been 2020. And of course, a new year means a wealth of new music that can offer solace and reassurance for our battle-tested souls.

Last month, we received a preview of one such source of musical inspiration in the form of Lizzie Weber’s “How Does It Feel,” the lead offering from her forthcoming EP of the same name, which is slated to arrive January 22nd. And today, the Albumism team and I are honored to share the world premiere of the project’s second single, “Lay Down Your Love,” a moving, strings-laden clarion call for understanding and selflessness, illuminated by Weber’s enthralling vocals and evocative lyrics.

“This song is very much inspired by words of comfort that were provided to me by loved ones at the beginning of the pandemic,” Weber explains. “I remember my mom e-mailed a poem (Lynn Ungar’s “Pandemic”) to my entire family, and I was so struck by it. Particularly two phrases:

Sing. Pray. Touch only those
to whom you commit your life...
And when your body has become still,
reach out with your heart.
Know that we are connected
in ways that are terrifying and beautiful.

The sentiment was so striking to me. I understood after reading it that the only thing we need to combat this invisible enemy is empathy. Empathy, and a deep desire to do everything in our power to protect the vulnerable. To put another before oneself. The fear became so much less overwhelming when that thought ran through my mind. The next day, I wrote the first lyrics...‘It won't be easy. But, all that we can do is lay down our love.’”

Enjoy the lyric video for “Lay Down Your Love” below and mark January 22nd in your calendars for the arrival of Weber’s How Does It Feel EP.

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