EMILY HARRISON
Listeners may recognize Mikhaela Faye’s vocals from the pop duo Floors, but the Cape Town born singer/songwriter released her first solo project with her debut EP Not now. Later on 24 April. The artist said that her EP “represents a screenshot of [her] life on somebody else’s phone”. All the tracks on the EP explore the themes of figuring out being in love, and your place in the relationship as well as just trying to be an adult. Her sound can be categorised in the genre of bedroom pop, which also features artists like Billie Eilish (specifically her earlier work).
The first track on the EP, ‘Please Don’t Ask Me’ is just as real as her description promises with honest, yet witty lyrics accompanied by atmospheric jazz. In the track ‘Body’, Faye shows a vulnerability that is a refreshing change in the pop genre. The electro-pop sound and catchy melodies that define the song makes it easy to imagine grooving to it on a long drive. Her track ‘Bullsh*t’ features relatable lyrics yet captures insecurities in relationships. ‘Trippin’ is a beautiful sounding and atmospheric track on the EP with a blend of instrumental and electronic sounds. The track ‘Dopamine Rush’ is a satirical standout in the EP with its unique sound and catchy chorus. The track is also a poignant commentary on social media. The final track, ‘Compulsion’ features funny, relatable lyrics that are also somewhat sad. The song captures the beautiful struggle of trying to be an adult in the 21st century. The track has a completely different sound to every other song on the EP, yet it feels like a necessary inclusion to end off her vulnerable and honest conversation with her listeners.
The EP captures the ‘chilled vibes’ sound that has been dominating popular music, indicating that this EP is likely to be a success. It is clear that Faye is still experimenting with her sound making the project seem like an exciting prologue to the artist’s career. The EP cements Mikhaela Faye as an artist to watch. Her sound is fresh and modern, making this EP a breath of fresh air in the South African music scene.
Image: Provided
