The Weightless Hour marks a profound turning point in Juanita Stein’s career. Known as the frontwoman of Howling Bells, Stein has taken a minimalist approach with sparse arrangements - often just her guitar and vocals, with the microphone so close it captures every subtle inflection. The result is an album that feels simultaneously stripped back and astonishingly rich, each moment brimming with intention. Every note and nuance on The Weightless Hour carries a weight that belies its simplicity. Each decision - whether in her choice of chords or a barely perceptible catch in her voice - feels deliberate, drawing the listener into a world of reflection and memory. This is music that demands close listening, not because it’s difficult, but because every small detail speaks volumes. The album’s title track is a staggeringly beautiful opener. From the first few notes you’re transported to a world that’s not happy, not sad, but something else entirely - thoughtful, considered, and steeped in memory.
Carry Me is a stunning love song that reflects on how no scripture or teaching can truly prepare you for the vulnerability and trust required to ask another person to share a life with you - to catch you when you fall. The Weightless Hour is an album of extraordinary subtlety and power, proving that sometimes the simplest arrangements can evoke the deepest emotions. Stein’s ability to create something so full with so little is a testament to her artistry, and the result is a record that lingers long after it ends.