Mariela – Moriah is available on Apple Music, Deezer, Spotify
by Walter Price
A dreamy poignant song examining the vastity and “complexities of trans identity and religious trauma” may sound a bit heady, but San Diego songwriter Mariela (Rachel Hall) pulls it off with great beauty with her single, “Moriah”.
The storyteller, in a quote shared with the GTC, has shared, “For me, this story symbolizes the experience of many queer people who are asked to sacrifice their true selves for the sake of their family’s or community’s beliefs. ‘Moriah’ is about reclaiming our narratives and acknowledging the pain that comes with being asked to deny who we are.”
The Christianity-based origin story for this track was unknown to me so I quote the press release, “Moriah” draws its name and thematic inspiration from the biblical story of Mount Moriah, where God commands Abraham to sacrifice his son, Isaac, as a test of faith. In this story, Abraham, demonstrating his unwavering devotion, prepares to sacrifice his beloved son. At the last moment, an angel intervenes, sparing Isaac and praising Abraham’s faithfulness. Mariela’s song poignantly asks the often-overlooked question: what impact did this event have on Isaac?”
It would be interesting to know what theologians have to say about the parallels of these journies. I’m certain that conversations will be sparked. And having Luke Gibson’s sweet riffs and producer Tommy Nixon’s atmospheric vibe will soften even the staunchest devout.
You can stream Mariela’s dialogue starter “Moriah”, here at the GTC.
MARIELA Moriah
Artist photo, artwork, quotes, and lyrics courtesy of Lindsay White Media
Written by Melody Walker and Rachel Hall
Produced by Tommy Nixon
w/ Luke Gibson (guitar) and Jules Stewart (drums)
website // instagram
Take this child
Up to the mountain
Bind her hands and feet
To the pyre
Raise the knife
Your heart is pounding
Turn my head and cry
As we whisper goodbye
Because there’s no coming back
No, there’s no coming back
From Moriah…
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