Track of the Day: Vemalo – Hesitate (2025)
Saunter through the realms of folk, pop, indie-pop and even a dash of alternative rock, and you find yourself walking alongside Vemalo. With only one single to their name, Vemalo remains a new band in this music industry; however, its members are well-versed in the music scene bringing together diverse experiences, influences and backgrounds in their charming sounds. So, without further ado, let’s dive into Vemalo’s debut single, ‘Hesitate’.
Formed in London, the UK-based trio find a balance between heartfelt emotion, soul-stirring music and poetic lyricism – or rather, they find the line and then somehow blur it while retaining a strong anchoring foundation. Produced by Jonathan Le Fevre in Paris, with mastering by Neil at Reveal and engineering by Marcus Cormack, ‘Hesitate’ is…well, how can I describe it? It’s a journey along a twinkling sonic river with fairy lights shimmering in its wistful haze.
Bold and confident, but with a tender vulnerability, Louis’ classical piano is bolstered by Matthew’s bass, the lead guitar might soar, but its presence is held within the warm soundscape. Yet, and this is my opinion, it is Vedantha’s vocals that bring a little something-something to ‘Hesitate’. All come together with sophisticated elegance, but the vocals insert a tremulous oscillation from fragile tenderness to reflective honesty. Penned by Vedantha and Matthew, it is a perfect expression of the “…emotional reflection on absent love.”
As a debut single, I find myself astounded at how I feel I’ve known this band all my life even though they are new acquaintances. Refreshing and eye-opening, but with the lingering warmth and caress in its comforting solace, Vemalo is…well, they’re friends. The most intriguing aspect of ‘Hesitate’ remains the vocals; sophisticated with precise control of its pitch-perfect tone, yet still simple and intimate.
Do I recommend Vemalo? Of course, I do! A captivating breath of air in those dreary, stressful days, ‘Hesitate’ is a song we all need every now and then. My one concern: Vemalo may have peaked with ‘Hesitate’, but I have yet to see and I look forward to more from the trio.
Find out more about Vemalo on their Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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