The EP begins and we’re instantly reminded of Massive Attack (elements of both classics Teardrop and Angel). A few more seconds in and we’re in Radiohead Videotape territory. It’s not a bad opening 20 seconds! But very quickly 24-year-old Dutch artist La Loye’s music takes on an identity that’s distinctly its own.
There’s a tender, folky undertone to the opening track (No Difference featuring fellow Dutch polymath LUWTEN) that recalls the work of Lisa Hannigan, This Is The Kit and Folklore-era Taylor Swift. It’s a little poopy in it’s catchiness but carefully crafted, clearly considered and full of curious artistic flourishes. It’s scattered with moments. Highlights. Like the combination of lead guitar and wind instrument (possibly a flute?) that comes in at around 03:05. What sounds like bed springs gently creaking in the intro. The first line of the chorus (“spending time in solitude, makes no difference”) and the way it cuts straight to the heart of the listener. And the ever so subtle, barely-there backing vocals.
The whole thing is remarkably subtle but strangely assertive and commanding at the same time and it sets the tone for the rest of the EP perfectly. What follows is ambitious, adventurous alt-folk with melancholic elements borrowed from indie, electronica and even classical. Reminiscent of Bon Iver, RASCA, Sorcha Richardson, Elliott Smith, The National and Phoebe Bridgers, each track here is evocative and expertly realised.
The EP bodes extremely well for La Loye’s forthcoming debut full-length, Sweet Dreams, See You Tomorrow, due out on May 2nd.
Written by Kinda Grizzly
