Ea Othilde might appear charming, but there’s also a threatening enigma in her music.
Ea Othilde made a splash in 2022 with her short but consistent debut EP, “How I’d Like to Fade.” Upon first listen, Ea might appear charming, and while she is, there’s also a more threatening enigma channeled on her latest EP: “Mary, Aren’t You Tired”.
This enigma truly hits you on the second cut, “I’m Tired of The Noise.” The laidback dry groove of the verse evaporates and explodes into heavy waves of guitar fuzz, weighing you down with a shock factor that’s hard to ignore.
With a little help from her friends, powerhouse producers Hans Olav Settem and Marit Othilde Baklund (Benedikt, Beharie), and a drum sound that would make Tame Impala jealous, Ea Othilde delivers a sonic experience that goes beyond the ordinary. “A Bad Introduction to Love” stands out with its catchy chorus, showcasing Ea’s ability to craft melodies that linger in your mind long after the song ends.
At the age of 19, Ea Othilde has already made significant strides, at least in a national context. It would only make sense if 2024 becomes the year Ea Othilde takes the leap into the global consciousness.
The EP’s highlight undoubtedly lies in “Man-Sized,” with its mesmerizing drum’n’bass groove and a chorus that grabs your attention. The sweeping strings in this track are reminiscent of Melody Gardot, adding a layer of sophistication to the composition.
Ea herself has stated that this marks the end of a chapter. In this context, we might view the EP as catharsis, a musical journey that prompts us to ponder what’s next for Ea. The inclusion of interludes that evoke a sense of film music and storytelling adds depth to the EP, hinting at the artist’s multifaceted approach to her craft.
Amidst the sea of generic industry plants, Ea Othilde emerges as the real deal. Forget about the comparisons with artists like Sigrid; Ea’s authenticity and musical prowess shine through in “Mary, Aren’t You Tired?” This EP is not just a promising start; it’s a declaration of artistic identity and a tantalizing glimpse into a future where Ea Othilde’s music could resonate on a global scale. Keep an eye on this rising talent; the journey has only just begun.
Stream “Mary, Aren’t You Tired” on Spotify.
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Ea Othilde on Facebook, Instagram.
Photo: Hans Olav Settem
