MILK POOL is for the romantics, the daydreamers, and those moving through intense periods of change.
Merpire’s Highly anticipated MILK POOL album is here. This sensational grungy pop album will leave you singing along in the shower for months!
Pre album launch we got to hear the singles Premonition, Leaving with You, and Bigger which definitely set the tone for the rest of the album. Luscious pop lyrics coupled with a darker, moodier sound create a dynamic and engaging experience that perfectly encapsulates where Rhiannon Atkinson-Howatt aka Merpire is at right now.
Written at a crossroads in her life where she felt called to make huge changes – and partially while on tour in the UK and Ireland with Pillow Queens – it sees her “wading playfully and trustingly into the unknown”; its title representing “the murky fluidity of the action [she] took to create it” including stepping away from hugely significant projects and relationships. Milk Pool retains Merpire’s relatability and humour while simultaneously allowing her to expand her musical sound.
Thematically, the album takes you on a journey – through love and lust, restlessness and discovery. One of my favourites (excluding the aforementioned singles) is Rosanna – I adore the lightness of the vocals and the contrast with the heavy, bass-y instrumental underneath. I love how the lyrics keep you guessing – is this two people trying to maintain a friendship and not take it further, is it unrequited love?
I also really enjoyed Fishing. It’s a rockier track than many on the album; an upbeat friendship anthem that will have you singing along in the car on those long and winding road trips. It’s also lyrically clever and is a track that truly showcases Merpire’s diversity as an artist.
Photo by Rick Clifford
MILK POOL was largely recorded at Melrose Place on Wurundjeri Country with production by Merpire, James Seymour (Pillow Queens, Elizabeth M. Drummond, Jacob Diamond), plus contributions from James Dring (Nilüfer Yanya, Sorry, Genesis Owusu) and Elizabeth M. Drummond & mixed by Ali Chant (PJ Harvey, Aldous Harding, Perfume Genius).
The album features
About Merpire
Merpire is the musical project of Melbourne-based artist Rhiannon Atkinson-Howatt. Known for her evocative indie-pop sound, she blends introspective lyrics with lush instrumentation. Her debut album, Simulation Ride, earned acclaim for its raw honesty and vulnerability. Merpire’s live performances have captivated audiences both in Australia and internationally, including tours with acts like Pillow Queens. Her latest work, MILK POOL continues to explore themes of intimacy and self-discovery.