Album Review: Maria Magdalena All Is One by Justyna Steczkowska
If you’re looking for an album that feels like a warm hug but also makes your brain tingle, Maria Magdalena All Is One might just be the ticket. Released in 2019 by Polish artist Justyna Steczkowska under Royal Concert (a concert agency doubling as a label—how cool is that?), this record blends easy listening, pop, and electronic vibes with a dreamy ambient twist. It’s one of those albums where every track seems to float around in its own little universe, but somehow they all fit together perfectly.
Let me tell ya about two tracks that stuck with me. First up, “Where Are You, Sophie?” This one grabs you right away with its haunting vocals and soft beats. There’s something mysterious yet comforting about it, like hearing someone whisper secrets into the wind. I kept replaying it because it felt like a puzzle I couldn’t quite solve—but didn’t want to either. The mix of melancholy and hope got me thinking about life's big questions without getting too heavy-handed. Like… what does Sophie mean? Who’s asking? And why does it feel so relatable?
Then there’s “Ave (No Control),” which comes at you twice on the album—and even gets remixed later. Honestly, it deserves all the attention it gets. The original version has this hypnotic rhythm paired with Steczkowska’s voice, which sounds like silk dipped in honey. But here’s the kicker—the Daniel Heath remix adds this whole other layer of energy. Suddenly, it’s not just a chill song anymore; it’s a vibe you can dance to while staring out the window dramatically. You know, the kind of moment movies are made of.
Other standouts include “Crystal Children,” which feels like walking through a forest lit by glowing mushrooms, and “Trust,” which slows things down enough to let you catch your breath. Oh, and shoutout to “Female,” which wraps everything up with a raw, empowering edge.
What I love most about Maria Magdalena All Is One is how unapologetically itself it is. It doesn’t try too hard to impress—it just exists beautifully. Listening to it feels like stepping into Justyna’s world, full of wonder, spirituality, and a touch of magic.
Final thought: If aliens ever visit Earth and ask us to explain human emotions through music, I’d hand them this album. And honestly? They’d probably dig it.
