After five years of anticipation, Solarstone (aka Rich Mowatt) finally delivers his most introspective and refined album to date, Innermost. Released on June 12, 2025, the long-awaited album marks a profound return for the British trance legend, whose last studio effort, Island, was released in 2020. In the years since, Solarstone has experienced life-altering events, including becoming a husband, a father again, and watching his firstborn come of age. These milestones have profoundly shaped Innermost, an album that reveals a deeply personal side of the artist.
Rich Mowatt describes Innermost as “my most honest longplayer to date.” It represents a journey of self-reflection, with a sound that ventures beyond the club. He remarks, “Good music demands that you push yourself, and the best of it also forces you to take risks.” And that’s exactly what Innermost embodies — a fearless exploration of life’s raw emotions, layered with atmospheric soundscapes, poignant melodies, and intricate production.
A Fresh Musical Direction
While fans of Solarstone’s previous works might expect another club-ready release, Innermost takes a different approach. Solarstone notes that this album isn’t “a club album” in the traditional sense, as his focus has shifted toward crafting an experience that is broader in scope, one that goes beyond mere dancefloor anthems. The club tracks that are present, such as the collaboration with Susie Ledge on “Star,” are woven into a larger sonic tapestry, blending with moments of introspection and emotional depth.
The album opens with the track “Shivelight”, a piece that sets the stage with its haunting baritone guitars and atmospheric textures. This track, which Solarstone began working on during the Island era, has been described as the perfect introduction to the album’s journey. It’s a track that captures both the ethereal and emotional complexity of the album, preparing listeners for the more personal experiences that follow.
A Journey Through Personal Growth and Reflection
Innermost is a reflection of the many layers of life that Solarstone has experienced over the past few years. For instance, “Over the Mountains”, featuring Clara Yates, was inspired by Yates’ emotional song about her father. Solarstone’s connection to the track adds another dimension to the song, which blends nostalgic elements with the euphoric soundscapes Solarstone is known for. There’s also an intriguing nod to Seven Cities in its production, adding a subtle, familiar touch to the track.
The centerpiece of the album, “Innermost”, was one of the most challenging pieces to finalize. Solarstone mentions that it took an entire week to perfect the piano melody, a task that became symbolic of the emotional weight he was carrying. “Everything from the last five years somehow got bound up into it,” he says, hinting at how personal this track—and indeed, the entire album—became.
Tracks like “Dream Sequence” and “Sonata” channel influences from the heyday of progressive house, while “Star”, with vocals by Susie Ledge, evokes a sense of nostalgia mixed with a fresh sense of wonder. Ledge’s Gaelic-inspired vocal melodies provide a captivating contrast to Solarstone’s atmospheric production. These moments, along with “Boy”, which was written after the birth of Solarstone’s second son, reflect the album’s deep emotional resonance.
An Exploration of Struggles and Triumphs
One of the standout tracks on Innermost is “Underground”, featuring Evan Henzi. This song tackles the complexities of depression, weaving a hopeful message throughout, enhanced by Henzi’s optimistic delivery. Solarstone’s production provides a pulse, driving the song forward while enveloping it in warmth. It’s a powerful track that encapsulates the emotional core of the album.
The album closes with “Complicated”, a track that delves into the nuances of new love and the clash between expectation and reality. It serves as the perfect denouement, bringing the listener full circle from the highs and lows explored earlier in the album.
A Masterpiece of Emotional Depth
Innermost is a powerful testament to Solarstone’s ability to evolve both as an artist and as a human being. It’s an album brimming with honesty, vulnerability, and introspection. Rich Solarstone’s journey is evident in every note, every lyric, and every carefully crafted sound. The album’s introspective nature invites listeners to embark on their journey of self-reflection, making it not just a musical experience but an emotional one.
For those seeking a deeper connection with Solarstone’s artistry, Innermost is a must-listen. It’s an album that transcends the confines of the club, offering an intimate glimpse into the artist’s soul. Available now on all major streaming platforms, Innermost is a timeless collection of tracks that will resonate for years to come.
Solarstone’s new artist album “innermost” will be out on June 12th, 2025!
Order your digital or physical copy here: https://solarstone.lnk.to/innermost
Tracklist “Solarstone – innermost“:
- Solarstone – shivelight
- Solarstone & Clara Yates – your sacrifice
- Solarstone – over the mountains
- Solarstone – dream sequence
- Solarstone & Susie Ledge – star
- Solarstone – innermost
- Solarstone & Evan Henzi – underground
- Solarstone – sonata
- Solarstone – boy
- Solarstone – complicated
