Lane 8 Delivers Blissful Soundscapes on ‘Childish’

This Never Happened label boss Lane 8 took a step back to reflect and looked to his children for inspiration on his latest album, Childish.

It might have been a quieter year than other recent ones for Lane 8, with a limited number of shows for fans to catch and releases to bask in, but clearly, he was working hard behind the scenes to make some magic. The This Never Happened label boss still satiated his faithful followers with seasonal mixtapes and a handful of shows as he recentered himself. Today, he’s added another chapter to his ongoing legacy with the release of hist fifth studio album, Childish.

News of the album came as a surprise earlier this month, with Lane 8 sharing that he had spent time with his kids, reflecting on his journey through life. Memories of growing up, discovering his passion for music, and exploring all that life had to offer for the first time flooded his mind. That child-like wonder and excitement is what he intended to return to when creating the ten tracks on Childish, and now that all of the tunes are available to hear, it’s evident he’s succeeded in his mission.

Making album number five has been a process of rethinking old habits… challenging myself to reconsider the way I make and release music, as much as the content of the music itself. I feel really fulfilled with this album, which wouldn’t have been possible without my incredible collaborators, family, and the entire This Never Happened team – thanks to everyone who brought such positive energy and creativity to this project.
Lane 8

The tunes on Childish were mostly unheard before the album’s full release, and while they are dripping with signature elements that Lane 8 has come to embrace, this album exudes a special atmosphere. The album’s only single and title track leads the way with a soft, pensive soundscape with an uplifting melody for added flair. From there, you’ll find yourself completely under Lane 8’s spell as he guides you on a journey into the depths of his mind.

Powerful tunes stir emotions throughout the album, especially those featuring vocal collaborators. Art School Girlfriend on “The Deep,” Arctic Lake on “The Choice” and “Say The Word,” and Tailor on “Wake Up” all offer soul-stirring performances that add depth as the seconds tick away. Meanwhile, the collaborations found toward the end – “You” with Kasablanca and “Quiet Rush” with Sultan + Shepard – also stand tall with powerful melodies that swirl in the mind while offering a larger-than-life, almost celebratory feeling.

That’s not to say that Lane 8’s solo productions don’t stand tall on Childish, as he packs quite a punch with those. “Higher” is a gorgeous ride into the melodic realm you won’t want to end, and “Merry Mary” is a happy, vibrant experience that keeps the energy grooving. The album’s penultimate tune, “Osse De Dosse,” marries piano notes and distant vocals with a soft beat that chugs forward before erupting with added energy in the second half to help your body sway more to the beat.

Lane 8 went on a reflective journey to create Childish, and once you give this album a spin, you’ll find yourself uplifted and your creativity sparked. If his past albums have healed your soul, this one will certainly do the trick. Listen to Childish on Spotify or your preferred platform, and stay tuned for more from Lane 8 by following him on social media.

Stream Lane 8 – Childish on Spotify:

Lane 8 – Childish – Tracklist:

Childish

The Deep (with Art School Girlfriend)

Higher

The Choice (with Arctic Lake)

Merry Mary

Wake Up (with Tailor)

Say The Word (with Arctic Lake)

You (with Kasablanca)

Osse De Dosse

Quiet Rush (with Sultan + Shepard)

Artwork: Lane 8’s daughter Heidi