Looking For Something New is the latest EP from Headaches (Melisa Bester, formerly known as E^ST).
This six track EP, produced alongside Max Byrne, creates an experimental pop sound by blending elements of electro-indie into the tracks. The result is a creative collection that takes the energy of dance beats and merges this with the core pop identity of the songs. Lyrically it maintains what you’d expect of a pop song but sonically it’s a fresh take.
My personal favourites were the dreamy tracks on the album: Yuzu in the Sun and Pleasures. Yuzu in the Sun’s bright vocals give feelings of both hopefulness and calm. It feels quietly uplifting, and while it’s not the most mellow track on the EP it does give chilled out vibes. On the surface, Pleasures is a light and playful track. It is a story of desire. However, digging a little deeper into the lyrics there’s definitely a more reflective element tucked in there too.
Fifth track Electrolytes, featuring Lonely Speck, is probably the track that moves closer to a dance release with its melodic yet driven beat coasting through the centre. The smooth vocals create a somewhat disorienting sensation against this backdrop which further adds to the energy of the song.
In contrast, final track Motions definitely feels more indie. This is absolutely controlled by the vocal delivery. Lifting high above the beat and reverb heavy on Electrolytes vs more monotone and centrally placed on Motions, it helps reflect the diversity of this release without the overall arc of the tracks swaying too far from each other.
It’s great to see Melisa return and to put out something that is gently tearing at the seams of what pop should be.