Anulaibar, a seasoned Swedish musician, has gifted us with a mesmerizing composition just in time for the holiday season. Titled “Judy’s Carol” and featuring the enchanting vocals of Benjamin Lyche, this haunting melody transcends the ordinary, leaving an indelible mark on the listener’s soul. The song’s original lyrics, seamlessly intertwined with a captivating vocal melody and accompanied by a delicate piano, create an atmosphere that is both haunting and timeless.
The genesis of “Judy’s Carol” is as intriguing as the music itself. Anulaibar, not one to compose music in a traditional sense, describes how the song materialized during a trip to London in May of the previous year. Despite the unconventional timing, the melody exuded a distinct Christmas essence, prompting Anulaibar to swiftly craft lyrics upon his return to Gothenburg. The collaboration with Benjamin Lyche, whose boyish voice had previously captured Anulaibar’s attention during a charity concert for Ukraine, was an inspired choice. Within a mere hour in the studio, the duo brought “Judy’s Carol” to life.
Anulaibar’s approach to music production shines through in the minimalistic nature of the recording. The artist confesses to a short attention span in the studio, opting for simplicity in his productions. This choice complements the essence of “Judy’s Carol,” adding to its charm. The song, according to Anulaibar, possesses an old-fashioned and cinematic quality, reminiscent of a bygone era when snowflakes fell gently in the glow of gas lamps.
The artist’s humility takes a back seat when discussing “Judy’s Carol,” as he unabashedly expresses his belief in the song’s beauty. The melody, once completed, evoked a palpable Christmas spirit for Anulaibar. Drawing from his experience as a writer of film scripts, he chose to craft the lyrics as a short story, providing a visual narrative to complement the musical arrangement. The tale unfolds in a Christmassy London, approximately 130 years ago, featuring a poignant portrayal of a dying girl. The lyrics serve as a poignant canvas, painting vivid images of a snowy, gas-lit landscape and infusing the song with a deep sense of nostalgia.
“Judy’s Carol” stands as a testament to Anulaibar’s artistic vision and ability to evoke emotions through music. The collaboration with Benjamin Lyche adds an extra layer of enchantment, as his vocals intertwine seamlessly with the haunting melody. In a musical landscape often dominated by commercialized holiday tunes, “Judy’s Carol” emerges as a refreshing and evocative piece, reminding us of the power of storytelling through music. Anulaibar’s ability to capture the essence of Christmas in a song that feels both timeless and contemporary makes “Judy’s Carol” a must-listen for those seeking a unique and soul-stirring holiday experience.