a liturgy for grief

British-Indian composer Cephas Azariah and acclaimed singer-songwriter Elle Limebear reveal their deeply moving new album, ‘a liturgy for grief’, out 1 December.

Born from their personal experiences of loss, the project explores the delicate tension of joy and sorrow. Taking a slow and tender approach to writing, Cephas and Elle allowed the process to unfold organically, often beginning with a single sound or motif and reflecting on how it made them feel.

“Sometimes you can’t make sense of what’s happening. That’s how we wrote this project, not overthinking, just feeling it, singing and playing it.” says Elle.

Across nine-tracks, Cephas’ signature ambient and neo-classical sound provides the foundation, while new electronic and beat-driven textures bring a fresh energy to his production style.

“’you’re gonna be okay’ is the newest sound compared to what’s been made before, as it has a beat. The pulse in the song reminds you that you will be okay. It’s encouraging, with a pace that rallies you on,” explains Cephas.

The album flows between instrumental pieces and hypnotic vocal moments, creating space for reflection and comfort. “It’s about giving sound to pain, loss and heartache while still carrying hope & beauty”, says Elle.

The project closes with the poignant track ‘joy & sorrow’, inspired by Elle’s friend Hannah and featuring her spoken word memo about her own experience with grief and loss.

“It’s profound, both as a teaching moment & as a beautiful song.” Elle shares. “Her words remind us that joy and sorrow can coexist. It may feel conflicting, but it’s true, and she says it so beautifully.”

Cephas Azariah & Elle Limebear ‘a liturgy for grief’ is available now to pre-order digitially via the Anjunastore.