POLI NIKA – Down To Earth (2024)
The younger sister of Lizzy McAlpine with Lana Del Rey as her best friend, singer-songwriter POLI NIKA’s music is soulful, moving and intoxicating. Potentially defined as indie-pop with a layer of folk lingering in the melodies, the Portugal-based songstress captures hearts but gives us a kick of “well, it’s not altogether light stuff so pay attention”. Despite having a discography going back to 2020 (at least on Spotify), this is my introduction to POLI NIKA and I’m unsure what to expect. To date, her music has received critical acclaim from international publications and radio stations, as well as winning hearts on a global scale. Come with me as I take my first step into POLI NIKA’s repertoire.
While a distinctive soulfulness exists in her music, each year brings another layer to the singer-songwriter’s musical offerings. Her 2020 debut single brought a fairy-like intensity with clear pop-inspired vocals; however, 2022 brought a huskier lilt and 2023 saw NIKA lean to a soul-tinged soundscape with cinematic ambience. In 2024, another slip of growth can be heard in the sophistication and maturity of her melodies. Interestingly, while forcefulness exists in her elegant vocals, raw vulnerability and fragility ooze from each chord.
Taking another step into 2024, ‘Down To Earth’ is NIKA’s second release this year. Unlike the previous single, ‘Down To Earth’ is softer, smoother and gentle with a pop ballad style. Ignoring pulsating electropop beats, the single embraces an acoustic sound driven by a haunting piano. Yet, while a barebones starkness exists in the melody, it is kaleidoscopic wrapping the listener in a sonic swirl.
One element I find intriguing about POLI NIKA and ‘Down To Earth’ is the harmonic blend of contrary concepts; delicately embracing one’s vulnerabilities while pushing empowerment and inner strength. A collaboration with Canadian chart-topping songwriter Liz Rodrigues, NIKA takes listeners on a journey of self-discovery in the intimate side of relationships, ‘Down To Earth’ tackles that pivotal moment when you are ready to reveal your true self to the other person. POLI NIKA explains:
“It’s always unnerving for me to embrace that vulnerability; as I sing, I am celebrating every tiny step towards openness. Towards the sensation of floating in space…”
Find out more about POLI NIKA on her official website, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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