Electro-pop évocateur Viola Odette Harlow, formally known as Glüme, returns with her brand new single, ‘Human’. It is the first official release since her phenomenal sophomore album, Main Character, which was released in February 2023.
On ‘Human, Viola creates a sumptuous yet haunting and heartbreaking ballad. Beautifully depicting Viola’s experiences within both her personal life and the entertainment industry, the single is bold and fiercely earnest. It is the perfect way for Viola to begin the new chapter of her continuously creative and diverse career. The accompanying music video was directed by Manny Liotta.
Speaking about the ‘Human’ music video, Voila said:
“The music video for ‘Human’ was inspired by the films Metropolis and The Red Shoes. Metropolis is the story of a woman turned into a robot to serve the narrative of a larger system. The robot then rebels against its makers and the real Maria still exists after all. In The Red Shoes, the character Victoria Page becomes locked into a role where a pair of red ballet shoes won’t let her stop dancing, and famously dances until her demise. These themes resonated with the last year of my life. I think I’ve also watched Blade Runner a lot and that is evident, too.”
Alongside the single, Viola also reveals her new moniker, and with it, the start of a new era. No longer known as Glüme, the LA-based artist looks towards the future as she takes her first steps into this new artistic direction.
Speaking about her new name, Viola said:
“I’ve found people with the biggest hearts sometimes are expected to take up the least space. I’ve found the biggest thrills are from people who only care with their mind and ego. You get put on a pedestal you don’t know you’re on that you mistake as intensified feelings. It’s not for your humanity or wellbeing, but for personal gain or to fill a void. People who have a lot of love to give and a strong sense of self are like shiny things, attracting those who lack such a center. This can steal your whole life, your passions, your energy, your health. I did not name myself Glüme, I do not own Glüme, I am not free as Glüme to release music. I happily will go by a real name now. If you have bonded with my previous work under the name Glüme, just think of it like a band that broke up. I want you to still cherish it. The person who made the music was Viola all along. It’s nice to meet you.”