Mariam the Believer – ‘Blood Donation’
Sweden has produced many iconic female musicians, from the legendary women of Abba to the contemporary sounds of Lykke Li (not to mention cultural staples like Ikea and meatballs). Adding to this impressive roster is Mariam the Believer, a welcome departure from the trend of artists adopting names followed by a random object or animal. Mariam, best known as one half of the Swedish avant-garde alt-pop duo Wildbirds & Peacedrums with her husband Andreas Werliin, has embarked on a solo journey with the captivating track ‘Blood Donation’ from her debut solo album.
There is something utterly mesmerising about Mariam’s presence; her pale complexion and signature beauty spot just above her lips contribute to her enigmatic allure. As she sways with her guitar, eyes closed, it’s as if she’s singing directly to a lover, creating an intimate atmosphere that draws listeners in.
It is strange hearing Mariamʼs voice without being coated in reverb, you hear every part of her raw vocals from her slightly androgynous tone and that dark and heavy lower range, to her improvised “nanana” moment with the similar passion of Turkish folk singer Selda Bagcan.
The simplicity of the guitar provides a foundation for Mariam to explore and improvise with her vocals, using jazz-like phrasing and a powerful belting register. Her voice trembles as she draws a connection between blood and honey, singing about “pouring honey” into her lover’s mouth to “make him come alive,” evoking imagery of a lover brought back to life or a relationship infused with renewed vitality. Though she insists she is not there merely to please, she expresses a sense of duty as if giving something essential to reignite the bond.
Much like her work with Wildbirds & Peacedrums, the song ebbs and flows, building emotion towards what feels like an inevitable climax, only to gently subside and continue its journey. In this acoustic setting, her bold and expressive vocals take centre stage, delivering a performance filled with personality and raw emotion. While markedly different from the bombastic sound of Wildbirds & Peacedrums, Mariam the Believer’s solo work embraces a more eerie, brooding atmosphere. With this hauntingly beautiful piece, Mariam has indeed turned me into a believer.
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