Introducing a striking debut, ten original songs and compositions both cinematic and heartfelt – Selene captures a sense of rising euphoria and hopefulness, with her self-titled album.
New Era aptly introduces the opening moments of this fresh venture, a movie-like brightness of resounding, theatrical layers of voice, colours, rhythms and instruments.
Not only is the set-up that of a Disney-esque arrangement and performance, but the songwriting is superb – long-form, playful verses, reaching towards and resounding with a brilliantly catchy hook. Selene’s vocals are as versatile as her musical influences, and New Era marks the perfect way to fire up this collection.
Creative versatility is key, and despite the distinct softness and expressive writing and tone of her artistic voice, Selene offers a multitude of moments and moods throughout this album.
Consider the sudden ambience and implied vastness of SELENE, L’Oiseau Bleu, and Shining Light, the third of these delivering a clear sense of power and euphoric celebration, which is again incredibly catchy and memorable with its title resolve.
Then we get the notably atmospheric depth and dreamy instrumental embrace of Star Sign, followed by the solo piano charm and folk intimacy of From Now On; a personal highlight. Always the sound design is creative, structurally unpredictable, and musically pristine – thanks to a handful of esteemed session musicians helping bring the songs to life.
In My Eyes injects a touch of pop-inspired energy and groove, something also found mildly in the later track Paradise, but not before the dreamy synths and loving sentiments of With You create a whole new immersive realm and adoring celebration.
And wrapping things up, more poetic imagery and ambient synths, a new vocal dynamic from a featured Hanul Lee, and a trip-hop-kissed aura that’s loaded with free-flowing lyrical reflections and meandering melodies, for Satellite.
