The band embrace their true authentic selves on this project
Up until this point, EEVAH have always thought of themselves as a ‘singles band’, steering clear of the commitment that comes with releasing EPs or albums while they explore and develop their sound to a point where they are happy with it. But now, they have nailed down the ‘EEVAH sound’ once and for all.
The title of this EP, Simplify Life, may make it sound like this project is serene and calming, inspired by social media trends of minimalism and slow living which have been circulating as of late. But EEVAH shared that the journey that they went on to get the project to the finishing line doesn’t exactly fit these tropes – something which becomes apparent as soon as you press play.
In fact, the raw ferocity, angst and frustration that drives this EP serves to completely contradict the title. Simultaneously, it also showcases an entirely new side of EEVAH which we have never seen before on their previous releases. Breaking free from the inclination to please others and conform with expectations, the band embrace their true authentic selves on this project.
Across its four tracks, Simplify Life is bursting with catchy hooks, captivating melodies and
electrifying guitar riffs, alongside personal and relatable lyrics that delve into profound themes throughout. The band disclosed that the addition of live drums transformed their approach to their music, allowing them to focus on the dynamics, storytelling, truth and soul, which can clearly be heard here.
Standing out from the crowd: EEVAH
Alongside Nicole Smith’s velvety vocals, multi-instrumentalist and producer Richard McNamara’s ambient, yet dynamic, guitar style and unique electronic contributions are what makes EEVAH’s music stand out from the crowd. While they are often compared to fellow electronic pop outfits, such as HAIM, MUNA, or CHVRCHES, the complexity and experimentation within their instrumentals sets them apart from their peers.
Once this is combined with the raw, cathartic emotion and feisty, angsty energy that Smith brings to her vocal performances, as well as her open and honest discussion of personal struggles, the pressures of conformity, and battles with self-identity, these songs become formidable with power.
But, with the EP being four tracks and about twelve minutes in length, this is contained in a neat and cohesive package, crafting a logical and unified project.
Though these themes give the EP a darker undertone – highlighting that, despite the title, life isn’t in fact simple at all – the lyrics are guaranteed to resonate with listeners who are experiencing similar emotions, as Smith gives voice to some of life’s most common, yet complicated, challenges. Now EEVAH have found their sound and identified who they want to be as musicians, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them become an unstoppable force in the alt-indie scene.
Rating: 7.8/10
Simplify Life is out on Thursday (2 May)