Single reviewsThe Other Side Reviews

Ellerieh Lin – Fast Forward (2023)

Processing big emotions with complex profoundness and a whimsical melody, singer-songwriter Ellerieh Lin reaches into your soul with her poetic music. Hailing from the USA – Austin, Texas to be exact – Lin is relatively new to the music industry. Beginning her musical journey about six months ago with only three singles under her belt, Lin may be considered a fledging. Yet, while a new figure, she cuts a clear path with her intriguing, emotional and heartfelt tunes. The latest addition to her discography is the single ‘Fast Forward’.



On the heels of her single ‘The Puppy Song’, ‘Fast Forward’ lies somewhere between Joni Mitchell and Joan Armatrading – but with far more vulnerability in the vocal execution. Hushed, soft and flowing, there is a charming smoothness to ‘Fast Forward’. Moreover, the barebones acoustic style adds gentleness to the song setting listeners adrift on a sonic river. The thing is, while the song has a softness to it, Lin’s voice is not only vulnerable but simultaneously painful – I mean painful in its melancholy, not that it’s painful to hear. It is this heartsore nature that shows the tumultuous waves beneath the sonic river’s shiny surface.

The result of cathartic journalling, ‘Fast Forward’ is Ellerieh Lin’s processing of difficult emotions dealing with separation/divorce. A jumble of words evolved into a poignant single capturing the grief, sadness and desperation of the experience. Lin explains: “three years ago, I was journalling about how I hoped I would feel okay in three years, and then the words in front of me turned into lyrics and melody.”

Capturing the rollercoaster of emotions involved when ending a relationship, her songs tell tales of a personal nature deepening the intense intimacy of her message. Interestingly enough, while melancholy appears to dominate ‘Fast Forward’, ‘The Puppy Song’, and ‘Old Home’, a sliver of hopeful optimism can be heard in the wistful sound.

For more from Ellerieh Lin, check out her official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.

This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator