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Estère - Estere Album Review

10 May 2014 // A review by Dilemma

Released as a free download via Bandcamp the debut EP from Wellington singer/songwriter/beatmaker/producer Estere is definitely unique in the NZ music scene.

Self-described as “just a girl with an MPC” Estere works her equipment and the product is individualistic, raw and worthy of a listen this NZ Music Month. Using a series of loops of live instruments, all played and recorded by Estere in her bedroom, as well as Logic Audio software on her laptop, Estere and her MPC named Lola are making what she calls "electric blue witch hop.”

The opener, Reptilian Journey has undertones of early basic Erykah Badu whom Estere's sound is often compared to. That precedes the track I Spy in which we hear Estere’s speaking voice mixed with some raspy soul vocals which adds layers to the Seven track EP. Right to the last track Pity, Estere's vocals are stunning, the tracks are smooth and interesting and if you are looking for some new, good and different then check out Estere this NZ Music Month!

 

About Estère

Estere doesn’t play music - she creates sonic amalgamations that merge culture, language and legend. She breathes life into narratives that marry the acutely human to the achingly mythic. Her vocals soar and then swoon, beckoning sultrily and opening gates to new interpretations of age-old tales. Estere plays 'electric blue witch-hop', as she calls her dimensions of electronic, folk and R&B. The New Zealand Herald calls it "a beautiful mix of everything the music world is lauding and lusting after right now."

She began her journey as a bedroom producer with an MPC called Lola. Her first album, Estere, released in 2015 via Paris-based record label Prospect, earned her accolades from prominent media outlets such as Elle Magazine (FR) and Portals. In 2018, Estere’s second album My Design, On Others' Lives was championed by Radio NZ as "an exceptional record." Afropunk called it "an immersive experience unlike anything you’ve ever witnessed."

Estere has brought her unique live show - she plays guitar, keyboards, drums - to Europe, Africa and Asia, including slots opening for Grace Jones and Erykah Badu. Estere’s on stage talent and energy has earned her invitations to international festivals including Glastonbury (UK), Afropunk Paris (FR), and Bushfire Festival (Swaziland). She has also headlined sold-out shows in the UK, France and New Zealand.

Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Estère

Releases

Makara Peak
Year: 2022
Type: EP
Archetypes
Year: 2021
Type: Album
My Design, On Other's Lives
Year: 2018
Type: Album
My Design, Part 1
Year: 2017
Type: Album
New Species
Year: 2015
Type: EP
Estère
Year: 2014
Type: Album

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