Pictoria Vark, the musical alter ego of singer-songwriter Victoria Park, has made a considerable impact with her 2022 debut album, The Parts I Dread. With her latest release, Nothing Sticks, she further cements her place in the indie-rock scene, presenting an album that perfectly aligns with the spirit of spring road trips—characterized by soft, dreamy guitar sounds encapsulating emotional narratives and seasonal adventure.

Musical Background and Influences

Hailing from New Jersey, Vark’s musical journey began in a suburban emo environment. She developed a passion for playing the bass, inspired by the renowned Carol Kaye’s contributions to the Beach Boys’ iconic album, Pet Sounds. Her songwriting often utilizes the bass to create a reflective and spacious sound, emblematic of her unique style that combines elements of bedroom-pop with a sincere lyrical approach.

Exploring Themes of Transient Youth

Within her songs, Vark intricately explores the ennui and fleeting nature of youth. Tracks such as “I Sing What I See” reveal her candid reflections on misguided aspirations: “I put my money on the wrong things/Ambulances and my broken strings/Or a thought that’s stupidly clinging.” This relatable sentiment resonates with anyone navigating the complexities of their twenties.

Life on the Indie Scene

Vark’s songs often depict life within the indie-rock community, where a sense of home is transient, friends are often fleeting acquaintances, and the past consists of hazy memories. One standout track, “I Pushed It Down,” captures the struggles of trying to succeed in the music industry, poignantly expressing the desire for understanding: “trying to make it in those bands, waiting for someone to understand.”

Creative Collaboration and Growth

Following her pandemic-era debut, Vark aimed to elevate her sound in a studio setting for Nothing Sticks, working closely with co-producers Bradford Krieger and Gavin Caine. This collaboration allowed her to experiment with her guitar work in songs like “Other Things” and “San Diego,” while also retaining her signature bass-driven sound. The track “Lucky Superstar” exemplifies this fusion with a shoegaze influence, conjuring the grandeur of 1990s rock as Vark reflects on interpersonal dynamics with sharp wit: “I could never hurt you/Unless I really tried.”

Chasing Fleeting Moments

The essence of fleeting youth and romantic aspirations permeates Nothing Sticks. Vark’s lyrics often reveal her grappling with impermanence, forging connections that are both exhilarating and ephemeral. As she bluntly articulates in “We’re Musicians,” “Thank god for good days in bad luck/The times when both are getting fucked.” Through her poignant storytelling, Vark poses questions about belonging and the nature of her pursuits, inviting listeners on her journey of self-discovery.

With her evocative songwriting and fresh sound, Pictoria Vark continues to capture the essence of youthful exploration—a testament to her ability to turn heartache and experiences into an engaging musical adventure.