206. Eliza Niemi Discusses The Cradle, Half a Double Life

Send us Fan MailOn this episode, Toronto-based singer, songwriter, composer and cellist Eliza Niemi joins Al to introduce him to Paco Cathcart’s project The Cradle and their 2021 album Half a Double Life. Eliza talks about how she first learned of Paco’s music, and Half a Double Life in particular, and she discusses the lyrical and musical elements that keep her coming back to the album. Eliza also delves into her 2025 album Progress Bakery, noting the features that were consciously and subconsciously influenced by Cathcart.Follow Eliza on Instagram at @eliza.niemi! You can also follow her label, Vain Mina Records, on Instagram at @vain.mina.records.Be sure to sign up for the YMAAA Newsletter at youmealbum.ghost.io. The first three episodes of Bonus Tracks—YMAAA’s subscriber-only podcast series—are now available at patreon.com/youmealbum, and more monthly episodes and other good stuff are soon to come. Please consider subscribing! Your support will make it possible for Al to keep this podcast going.To keep up with You, Me and An Album, please give the show a follow on Instagram at @youmealbum.1:31 Eliza joins the show2:00 Eliza explains how she became a fan of The Cradle5:08 Eliza notes why Half a Double Life stands out to her among Cathcart’s albums6:15 Eliza breaks down some of Half a Double Life’s lyrical themes14:46 Al enjoyed the contrasting imagery in “No Human Hands”16:30 Eliza and Al talk about the cyclical nature of the album’s songs19:54 Half a Double Life got Eliza more interested in minimal arrangements22:28 Paco’s theme of compromise extends to “Always Certain Trades”23:48 Is it easier to get attached to albums that are “growers”?25:13 Eliza has listened to the album steadily since its release27:43 Eliza has questions about the album that she’d like to ask Paco29:25 Eliza appreciates the thought Paco gives to the musical elements they use31:56 Eliza likes the album’s blend of darkness and silliness33:45 Eliza and Al compare and contrast Half a Double Life with Progress Bakery38:49 Eliza explains the origins of a lyric from “Do U FM”42:10 Eliza talks about the ASMR quality of her music45:04 Eliza explains why she called her album Progress Bakery46:57 Eliza talks about some upcoming shows48:52 Eliza alerts us to a new release on her labelOutro music is from “Dusty” by Eliza Niemi.Support the show