In the quiet town of Hemel Hempstead, England, an artist emerges with an album that feels as if it was born from the heavens themselves. Nirmalee Rajaratne, a name that may be new to you, offers a deeply personal, introspective, and spiritually rich listening experience with her debut album, “His Design.” Released on December 1st, 2024, the album is a testament to Nirmalee’s commitment to her faith, artistic independence, and exploration of divine purpose. Through her angelic vocals and reflective lyrics, she invites us into a space where faith, trust, and spiritual connection can be felt in the most intimate ways. The melodies are comforting, mellow, and deeply meditative, offering solace and a sense of spiritual refuge. It’s the kind of album that feels like a prayer, a conversation with the divine, or a moment of surrender to the unknown. Let’s delve into it.
The album opens with “How Can I?” a track that sets the tone for the introspective journey ahead. Nirmalee’s soft, celestial voice floats effortlessly over a minimalistic, piano-driven melody, creating a delicate atmosphere of vulnerability. The song explores the feeling of unworthiness and the search for understanding in a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming. The instrumentation’s gentle build mirrors the lyrics’ emotional depth, while Nirmalee’s performance, infused with sincerity and longing, makes this track a heart-stirring beginning. The song’s structure is nicely curated, flowing through movements that keep you hooked in every way. Nirmalee deserves a standing ovation.
Symphony hits differently as it elevates the album’s energy with its serene yet expansive sound. The orchestration is lush and full, with soft melodies and gentle percussions blending seamlessly with Nirmalee’s delicate vocals. This track feels like an embrace from the divine, an invitation to find harmony within ourselves and the universe. Nirmalee’s delivery is especially moving here, as she sings of finding peace in life’s grand design, trusting in the Creator’s plan. The performance is uplifting and humbling. It celebrates the connection between faith and the natural world. This song is pure magic and it hits you right in the chest
The metaphor of the “Earthen Jar” comes to life in this track, where Nirmalee reflects on human fragility and the strength that comes from divine grace. The soft piano melodies provide a grounding presence throughout, while Nirmalee’s soft and powerful voice communicates the tension between vulnerability and strength. The production here is understated, allowing the lyrics to shine through clearly. It’s a track that celebrates imperfection, offering a comforting reminder that, like an ‘earthen jar,’ we are all vessels capable of holding divine light. The way the keys weaved through this track added a melodic layer that elevated everything. It’s created its little universe in my mind while listening.
This introduces a sense of warmth and belonging, as Nirmalee sings of being a “Child of Light.” The arrangement is stripped down, with gentle piano and subtle percussion that lets her voice take center stage. Nirmalee’s delivery is tender, almost whispering the words as though imparting a secret, a reminder of our innate worth in the eyes of the Creator. The production is minimalistic, creating an intimate feel, making this track a personal prayer for anyone searching for their place in the world. There was this vibe that ran through the whole track, which made it impossible not to fall in love with it. It felt like a warm hug, which pulled me deeper into the song’s atmosphere.
With melodies welcoming you as the first rays of the morning light brush your cheek, “Eternal Shepherd” is one of the album’s most serene tracks and offers a beautiful message of divine protection and guidance. Nirmalee’s voice is at its most angelic here, floating over lush notes and gentle percussion that create a calming, almost meditative ambiance. The lyrics are steeped in trust as Nirmalee surrenders to the care of the “Eternal Shepherd.” The production is timeless, with its classical influences marrying beautifully with contemporary Christian vibes, creating a peaceful sense of security.
“Eagle’s Child” stands out as a soaring anthem of empowerment and divine destiny. The arrangement here builds in intensity, with shimmering synths and driving percussion that reflects the strength and courage to rise above life’s challenges. Nirmalee’s vocals take on a slightly more assertive tone in this track, symbolizing the soaring freedom of the eagle. It’s a song of hope, urging us to spread our wings and trust in the divine purpose laid out for us. I felt the raw emotion pouring through this song. There was an undeniable command, power, and hope in her delivery that hit me right in the gut. It left me sitting in silence for a minute after it ended, just processing what I listened to.
The mood shifts once again with “Empty Hands,” a deeply reflective track that explores the themes of surrender and trust. With tender piano melodies and a soft, almost whispering vocal delivery, Nirmalee conveys the vulnerability that comes with letting go of control. The sparse instrumentation allows her voice to be the focal point, capturing the raw emotion in the lyrics. This song feels like an offering—letting go of everything to receive the divine will with open hands. I admire how she played with her tone, especially the beautiful pitch control. It’s almost unreal how good it was.
The closing track, “On the Many Waters,” brings the album to a tranquil yet powerful conclusion. This song speaks of navigating life’s storms with faith, the waters representing both the challenges and the guidance that comes with divine presence. The production is lush, with flowing strings and ethereal synths creating a sense of vastness, while Nirmalee’s voice is soft yet steadfast. The imagery of navigating many waters resonates deeply, capturing the essence of the album’s spiritual journey—a journey marked by faith, trust, and the constant presence of divine protection.
Throughout “His Design,” the production is as soft and celestial as Nirmalee’s voice. The instrumentation is light, featuring a blend of guitars, pianos, strings, and subtle synths that create a soothing and introspective atmosphere. The use of AI-generated compositions is an innovative touch, blending modern technology with timeless elements of faith-based music. The result is a contemporary and eternal sound, a blend of new and old, always maintaining an intimate, meditative quality.
Overall, Nirmalee Rajaratne’s “His Design” is a deeply personal and universally resonant album. It’s a collection of songs that encourage reflection, surrender, and trust in the divine plan. With her soft, angelic vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and gentle production, she invites us to embark on a journey of spiritual discovery—one that feels intimate, safe, and deeply meaningful. Whether you’re a seeker of solace or simply someone looking for a moment of peace, His Design offers a soothing balm for the soul.
Listen to “His Design” album on Spotify
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