In 2021, Marissa Nadler released “The Path of the Clouds” to critical acclaim. It was the newest addition to the plethora of spectacular albums Nadler has released since her debut “Ballads of Living and Dying” in 2004. “The Path to the Clouds” saw a change in direction from Nadler’s previous material, including more psychedelic and gothic influence, having many call it her most ambitious effort to date. Now she is returned with a companion EP entitled “The Wrath of the Clouds” which is composed of three new original tracks recorded after the completion of “The Path of the Clouds,” as well as two covers.

The EP kicks off with the eerie “Guns on the Sundeck.” While the track is incredible, I can see why it was left off the full length. Clocking in at seven minutes, the track feels more epic and monolithic in composition. The track (in classic Nadler fashion) is a slow burning narrative journey, this time describing the journeys and sights of The Queen Mary ship.

“All the Eclipses” is an incredibly vivid and descriptive track lyrically. Nadler’s classic ethereal and atmospheric vocal stylings sing of longing, connection, Mother Nature and the beauty of color. “Some Secret Existence” utilizes a gorgeous harmony to paint a descriptive picture of leaving home.

The EP closes out with covers of “Ferry Lane” by Sami Smith from 1970, and “Seabird” by The Alessi Brothers from 1976.

Overall, the cuts from this EP work well as a companion piece to the LP because unlike many post-album releases, these tracks stand firmly and uniquely away from the LP. They aren’t throwaway cuts that were cut because the album needed to be shortened. They are songs that easily were strong enough to be featured on the full length, but also deserved to be highlighted for their stark differences from tracks on “The Path of the Clouds.” The EP is out 2/4 on Sacred Bones Records.

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