London-based singer, songwriter, artist and producer Anna Straker has released a stirring new track, accompanied by a beautiful video. “London Knows” is a masterfully constructed piece of music that will tug at your heartstrings and fill you with a sense of hope and desire to heal. 

The lyrics are stunningly scripted, painting a very moving picture that feels almost haunting in its delivery thanks to Straker’s delicate and graceful vocals. Based on the artist’s own very personal and confronting experience, there is such bravery in her words. Speaking about her inspiration for the track, Straker commented:

"Last year, I was a victim of a sexual assault whilst on holiday in Bangkok. What started as a fun night out ended up with me being lost for hours, drugged with something so strong that I forgot my own name. It was the scariest thing that’s ever happened to me and I was traumatised.

Coming back home I felt so different, London felt unfamiliar, and doing the things I normally did every weekend was suddenly triggering for me. I wrote this song about healing, and the uncertainty of recovery. Knowing I was going to feel better one day but not knowing when, and hoping that London will eventually feel like home again.

During this pandemic, we have all felt these same feelings of uncertainty, hoping for the world to heal and return to normal again. I hope you listen to this song and remember that whatever the world throws at you, you can be whole again, you can recover, and you can heal."

The music is just perfection and pairs so wonderfully with Straker’s voice. The harmonies are spectacular yet also remarkably understated, with the combination of piano and synth being gloriously soothing. 

Born in London, Anna Straker first emerged onto the music scene as a teenager, featuring on YouTube. This ultimately led to her discovery by producer Mike Spencer and she has been making music ever since. Her debut EP “Serious” landed in late 2016, grabbing the attention of fans and music heavy hitters alike. Her most recent single “Sweat,” was dropped in April this year, putting the artist right back at the forefront of our minds. 

“London Knows” just further demonstrates Straker’s remarkable diversity as an artist, as well as her stellar resilience as a human being. Give this one a listen today and be sure to check out the video too.

 singer-songwriter 

Author: Harley Houghton

Harley Houghton is a writer and blogger, based in Melbourne, Australia. Her passions include music, especially metal, gaming and comics. Check out her blog www.harleysmadhouse.com and follow her on Twitter.