By: Staff
We had the opportunity to dive into the latest EP release, “Dawning” by Anashie, and it is nothing short of an astounding debut. The sheer depth, sonic diversity, and polished production make it almost unfathomable that this is her first official EP project. The level of artistry displayed by this singer-songwriter and her team is truly remarkable, leaving a lasting impression from start to finish.
Exploring the lyric videos on YouTube offered a richer understanding of the themes and emotions embedded in the tracks, making the experience truly rewarding. We began our journey with “APPLE PIE,” and its intoxicating drum patterns immediately captivated us. The production employs a striking start-stop technique, generating an infectious energy that is both dynamic and thrilling. What elevates this track even further is the intricate harmony interplay, seamlessly weaving through the vocal delivery and embedding itself into the listener’s mind.
Opening with a delicate, almost whispered sigh, Anashie delivers the lyrics:
“Apple pie / Apple pie / Cut a slice but / Please don’t cut mine”
The harmonies drift effortlessly, creating an ethereal, almost hypnotic effect that lingers long after the song ends. The deliberate use of spatial dynamics within the production adds a swirling, immersive quality that enhances the listening experience. Each time the beat returns after its gentle pauses, it serves as a reminder of just how addictive the rhythm truly is. By the time the track concludes, you’ll find yourself unconsciously singing along to the playful:
“beep beep beep beep!!” refrain.
“A LITTLE LOT” takes an entirely different sonic approach, shifting into a beautifully fluid and danceable R&B groove. The vocal performance is nothing short of stunning, with breathy, sustained notes that exude warmth and emotion. When Anashie sings:
“Lying to myself a little lot”
The line feels like a candid self-reflection, making the song instantly relatable. There’s an endearing, almost whimsical charm to the phrase, making it impossible not to smile. The track’s unexpected turn into a duet elevates it further, showcasing Anashie’s ability to create moments of genuine connection with the listener. Joined by singers Joshua Eye and Jacob Oulton, the song transforms into a beautifully layered conversation. The vocal chemistry between the three is exceptional, with each artist bringing a distinct yet complementary presence to the track. Their harmonization and call-and-response dynamics add depth and richness, making this a standout moment on the EP.
One of the most poignant lyrical moments unfolds in the lines:
“Well maybe you can lie to yourself / Trying not to hurt nobody else / But watering the sea / Is making space / Here between you and me”
This sentiment is both poetic and emotionally resonant, capturing the bittersweet essence of love and self-deception. It’s a beautifully crafted expression of vulnerability, making it easy to connect with on a personal level.
Beyond vocal talent and strong lyricism, great artistry also lies in collaboration, and Anashie’s choice of featured artists is impeccable. Her ability to curate a team that enhances her vision speaks volumes about her artistic intuition.
Next, we explored “MESS,” a delicate, breathy, and emotionally charged apology that tugs at the heartstrings. The song's intimate delivery invites listeners into a deeply personal space, making it impossible not to empathize with the emotions Anashie conveys. Her vocal control and nuanced phrasing continue to impress, solidifying her as a performer with both technical skill and raw emotional depth. The accompanying visuals further enrich the narrative, adding another layer of storytelling to the experience.
Closing out the EP, “BEGGIN” delivers an intriguing visual and auditory experience. The music video is packed with symbolism, seamlessly blending direct storytelling with subtler, more abstract imagery. The depth of meaning embedded within the visuals of each video complements the song’s sonic landscape, creating a cohesive and immersive artistic statement. The song itself is a journey, unfolding in a way that feels both intentional and organically compelling.
We want to highlight the exemplary vocals throughout the EP, showcasing Anashie’s impressive range and technical skill. From breathy, intimate, and soulful musings to long, sustained notes that blend seamlessly, the result is an extraordinary listening experience.
Anashie’s collaboration with acclaimed producer Josh Kelly also plays a crucial role in shaping the EP’s sound. Kelly’s contributions across all four tracks are commendable, ensuring a consistent yet versatile production quality that brings Anashie’s vision to life. The meticulous mixing, mastering, and final touches make this project an auditory delight, enhancing every nuance of her performance.
It’s evident that Anashie is an artist on a rapid rise, poised to make a significant impact in the music industry. “Dawning” is a testament to her talent, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail. We highly recommend giving this EP a listen, you’ll want to be among the first to say you discovered Anashie before the world inevitably takes notice.
Born in Kenya and now based in Atlantic Canada, Anashie is a singer-songwriter with a distinctive ability to blend soulful expression with contemporary soundscapes. Her debut EP, "Dawning," takes listeners on a cinematic and emotionally charged journey, exploring themes of love, anticipation, and heartbreak with striking depth.
As an independent artist, Anashie takes pride in writing every song herself, crafting lyrics that are both personal and universally resonant. Partnering with renowned producer Josh Kelly, she brought her vision to life with remarkable precision. "Dawning" narrates the arc of new beginnings and evolving emotions, symbolized by the imagery of a veiled bride, a representation of the excitement and uncertainty that come with commitment and change.
With a sound that fuses heartfelt melodies and evocative storytelling with moody pop and R&B influences, Anashie has carved out a unique space in the music landscape. She also collaborated with local artists Joshua Eye and Jacob Oulton on "A Little Lot," further enriching the EP’s dynamic range.
Anashie’s music resonates on a deep emotional level, offering a connection that transcends genres. "Dawning" is a project crafted for anyone who has ever experienced the highs and lows of love, making it both intimate and widely relatable.
Now streaming on all platforms, this debut marks just the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary musical journey.
Check out this latest release and listen to more on Spotify & YouTube