Toronto-based artist, writer and composer Lydia Ainsworth draws upon an intriguing array of influences on her sophomore album, Darling of the Afterglow. You can hear a little bit of everything in this swirling mix, from pop to classic to goth to R&B, all intercut with layers of synths.

She talked to us earlier this month about how she weaves together her kaleidoscopic sound.

“I have to search deeper and really treat the melody like a puzzle,” she said via email. “Like it's some kind of archaeological quest of uncovering hidden gems, I know it will present itself if I keep digging.”

Ainsworth added that the album will give listeners a glimpse inter her inner life. “For this album I drew inspiration from life experiences, musical experiences, love, among other things, the album is a surreal scrapbook of sorts.”

The first single from the album, “The Road,” is slow-building and meditative, and features Ainsworth’s airy vocals over intricate layers of production. The second single, “Afterglow,” shows a more sombre side to the songwriter, feeling both mystical yet almost sinister in tone.

Listen to our exclusive advance stream of Darling of the Afterglow right here, a week ahead of its release date, and check out tour dates here. You can pre-order the album here.