By Claire Kim
Swedish recording artist and songwriter Seinabo Sey has finally released her long-awaited EP, “For Madeline.” The twenty-three-year-old success story from Stockholm, Sweden first wowed critics in 2013 with her single, “Younger.” Her solo debut topped charts in Sweden and Norway, as well as going to number one on U.S. Billboard’s Hot Dance/Club Playlist. The song repeats the infectious warning that “you aren’t getting any younger,” which is matched with Seinabo Sey’s dark and sultry vocals. The spliced synths and bobbing percussion builds, drops, then builds again, leaving the listener wanting more. After two years, Sey’s audience has finally been given new material. In early 2015, the six-song EP, dedicated to her mother, was shared on iTunes, Spotify and Soundcloud.
The EP opens with “Hard Time,” a dramatic show-stopper. It is definitely one of the darker songs on the EP. The lyrics talk about her failing relationship, in which she feels her time and emotional stability has been robbed of her. Despite the difficult subject, the clapping in the background, the steadfast and sure tempo and the aloof tone sends an alternative message of hope for the future. The song is angry, but not broken. It plays as a warning or promise to become stronger and not to let negative experience stain a whole person.
“Pistols at Dawn” begins with a full composition, but is soon left with only vocals. Sey’s memorable voice is deep and luscious, merging with the instrumentals in the background. Her inky voice and the subtle electronic beats of the background reunite with the piano towards the end of the song, creating an emotional and rewarding experience. This song unites the simplicity of using only vocals with the complexity of the lyrics. It is at once powerful and vulnerable and sultry and innocent, a mesmerizing paradox in one song.
“You” is comfortable, neutralizing and safe. It feels like a fluttering heartbeat anticipating only good things. The many vocal tracks, whether they are layered in the main song or humming in the background, give the song a full sense of completion. The chorus is where her voice takes off, and the listener is left in complete awe. The mixture of layered then un-layered and altered then unaltered voice is collaborated perfectly.
final song of the EP, “River,” combines all of Sey’s artistry into one song. The deep voice we have become accustomed to is now met with sharp, piercing, high notes that excite and energize the listener. The entire song feels like a sprint: exhilarating, fast-pace and overwhelming. Her intricately crafted and refreshing combination of pop, hip hop and soul truly shines in “River.”
With the release of “For Madeline,” Sey has made a place for herself in the music world, proving that she is not a one-hit-wonder and making sure that listeners anticipate her next release.
