Will cover

Released 10 years ago

Will

Julianna Barwick · 2016

38 min · 9 tracks · ambient music

Ethereal vocal layers intertwine with shimmering textures, creating a meditative soundscape that invites deep introspection.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Nebula — This track showcases Barwick's mastery of layering vocals and atmospheric sounds, enveloping the listener in a cosmic sound world that feels expansive yet intimate.
  • →
    Beached — With its haunting melodies and rich textural depth, this piece exemplifies the emotional gravity present throughout the album, inviting contemplation.
  • →
    Same — The repetitive structures and evolving harmonies create a hypnotic effect that perfectly encapsulates Barwick's signature style of blending voice with intricate soundscapes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
75 /100
Alpine
Higher than 98% of albums we've rated

The album's ethereal soundscapes and seamless flow create an immersive listening experience.

What we noticed

  • The album features layers of vocal harmonies that are processed and manipulated, creating a dense, atmospheric texture throughout.
  • Each track gradually builds in intensity, often starting with sparse sounds that evolve into richer soundscapes.
  • There are no traditional song structures; instead, the tracks flow seamlessly into one another, enhancing the meditative quality.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
8/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
9/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • serene soundscapes for relaxation
  • steady pacing for deep focus
  • ethereal vocal layers for introspection
  • gradual peaks invite emotional release

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking upbeat, fast-paced tracks
  • prefer standalone singles over flow

Where this album fits

Career context
In 2016, Julianna Barwick released 'Will' as her third studio album, following 2013's 'Nepenthe.' At this point in her career, she was refining her unique approach to ambient music, exploring richer sonic landscapes and deeper emotional resonance. This album marked a significant development in her artistic expression and production techniques.
Stylistic neighbors
Sigur Rós· Grouper· FKA twigs

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 St. Apolonia 2:13
  • 2 Nebula 5:34
  • 3 Beached 4:08
  • 4 Same 4:55
  • 5 Wist 2:40
  • 6 Big Hollow 5:30
  • 7 Heading Home 3:57
  • 8 Someway 4:30
  • 9 See, Know 5:04

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata