Some albums don’t just tell a story; they transport you into a different world entirely. That’s exactly what Una Raye accomplishes with her latest release, “Indoctrination,” a mesmerizing ten-track folk odyssey that blends traditional Celtic influences with electrifying modern folk and poignant storytelling. Released on February 7, 2025, this album is a deep, introspective dive into life, love, loss, and the lingering echoes of a post-pandemic world.
Born and raised in Cemaes Bay, Wales, Una Raye carries the spirit of her homeland in every note she sings. Her music is unmistakably rooted in the rich storytelling traditions of Celtic folk, yet she weaves in a fresh, contemporary energy that feels both timeless and entirely new. Collaborating with Lindsay Walker, the duo crafted Indoctrination in a way that allows every track to breathe, evolve, and shape itself organically around the narrative. The result? An album that feels less like a collection of songs and more like an unfolding novel, each track revealing a new chapter in an intricate story.
The album opens with its title track, “Indoctrination,” a haunting, melancholic reflection on the uncertainty of the world today. It grapples with the deep emotional and societal shifts that emerged after the COVID-19 pandemic, serving as both a lament and a call to awareness. Raye’s vocals on this track are delicate yet commanding, drawing listeners in with a sense of longing that lingers long after the song ends.
Tracks like “Cùil Lodair” and “Thunder” dive deep into historical and mythical influences, evoking stormy landscapes and battles both literal and emotional. The melodies are sweeping and cinematic, making it easy to get lost in the immersive world that Una Raye and Walker have crafted.
Then comes “Caramel”, a track that offers a lighter, more romantic respite. Here, Raye’s voice softens into something warm and intoxicating, wrapping around the lyrics like a comforting embrace. It’s one of the more accessible songs on the album, yet it still carries that signature depth and layered storytelling that defines her work.
Midway through, “Outta Space” shifts the mood once again, bringing an otherworldly, ethereal quality to the album. There’s a dreamlike quality to the instrumentation, giving the impression of floating weightlessly through a sea of sound and memory. It’s folk music at its most experimental, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.
“Shadow” and “Devour” bring back a dark intensity, both lyrically and musically. These tracks explore personal demons, past regrets, and the parts of ourselves we try to hide but can never truly escape. The rawness of Una Raye’s vocal delivery, paired with Walker’s stripped-down yet powerful production, creates an atmosphere that is both intimate and unsettling.
As the album moves toward its conclusion, “Wild Hearts” and “Shine a Light” offer a sense of hope and resilience. These songs celebrate survival, strength, and the unbreakable spirit of those who refuse to be defeated by the hardships of life. The folk instrumentation here feels uplifting yet never saccharine, keeping true to the album’s emotional honesty.
Finally, the closing track, “Nice To Meet You,” brings everything full circle. There’s a quiet acceptance in its lyrics, a sense of peace despite the turmoil that came before it. It’s a soft but powerful farewell, leaving listeners with a final thought to carry with them.
What makes Indoctrination truly stand out is its seamless blend of past and present. Una Raye doesn’t simply recreate the folk traditions of Wales and Ireland—she redefines them for a modern audience, blending them with contemporary production, raw emotion, and deeply personal lyricism. Each song feels like a glimpse into her soul, an unfiltered look at the world through her eyes.
Her quote, “Time is temporary, if only just a memory,” perfectly encapsulates the essence of Indoctrination. This album isn’t just about telling stories—it’s about capturing the fleeting nature of life, love, and the moments that shape us.
With no performances lined up yet, Una Raye is still letting her music speak for itself—and it’s speaking volumes. Curators, folk enthusiasts, and anyone searching for music that resonates on a deeper level will find something truly special in Indoctrination.
Una Raye isn’t just making music—she’s crafting experiences, weaving stories, and leaving behind echoes that will stay with listeners long after the last note fades.
