Polar Youth, otherwise known as Elisabeth Verstraete, first made her mark on the scene back in 2014 and since then has been working towards becoming a globally established artist in her own right. Her latest collection, the EP Lost & Found is a great stepping stone that will – or at least should – help her do it.
The highlight of opening number ‘Space’ is easily the instrumentation which helps to create a piece that is hypnotically atmospheric and serves as a suitable introduction to those who have yet to discover Elisabeth’s talents. Latest single ‘Drifter’ is a beautiful ballad and a collaboration with Hanne Torfs of Fortress and LA rapper Trent The Hooligan. The lyrics are enchanting and catchy, while the musicianship resonates with a distinctive R’n’B feel, proving that Elisabeth most certainly isn’t afraid to experiment with her sounds and styles however the rap at the end might prove to be a little off-putting for some.
Following on from that is ‘Faded‘, the track which may yet well prove to be the highlight of the collection to many music fans. Another collaboration, this time with South Korean-American artist Sangstaa, the track blends Sangstaa’s smooth vocals with an addictive synth rhythm and lyrics which centre around what it means and how it feels to have that one person always by your side. The end result is something rather stunning and worthy of numerous repeat listens. ‘Stay’ meanwhile is considerably more emotive and addresses loss and heartbreak in rather impressive fashion. The production alone is brilliant, but when combined with the electronica led instrumentation and backdrop, it quickly comes one of those songs that you might find yourself coming back to again and again.
Next comes ‘Secrets’, a collaboration with NYC artist ÊMIA. A great little slice of electro-pop, with a decidedly laid back chorus which perhaps shouldn’t work given the electro-led backdrop to the song but somehow does it’s little wonder Polar Youth opted to release this as a single back in March. It’s then left to ‘Call Out’, which features Wayi and Lani Rose, to close out the EP and, with its strong R’n’B feel, similar to that of ‘Drifter’, and a melody that will likely leave you both chilled out and intrigued/captivated thanks to the lyrics, Lost & Found ends on a considerable high, and Polar Youth’s career may yet, as it deserves to, reach new heights on the back of this collection.
Lost & Found is out now via N.E.W.S.
