Natalie Shay
From the Milk EP, “Heaven”
Natalie Shay is an indie artist from the north of London who’s been releasing music since 2015. To date, she’s released over a dozen singles, in addition to a host of re-mixes, and most recently a 6 song EP called “Milk.” She’s been fortunate enough to hit some of the larger stages around London, as well as get features on CBBC and Spotify. She’s got one of those voices that stands out with a strong lower register and unique tone - here’s our review of “Heaven.”
Track starts with an acoustic riff and an acrobatic verse that features her strong lower register and solid falsetto. Halfway through, to help build the track, the drums drop in as well as some great vocal effects and a slight difference in the chord progression. When the chorus hits, the focus stays where it should be - on the vocals and the story of the lyrics. It’s an endearing lyric of love and the tribulations of the last few years, with a great line - “no one ever pretends in heaven.” As the second verse comes in, the exceptional vocal production continues and you’re now right in the middle of a solid pop song with a warm, sing-along vibe. Then comes a nice guitar solo - longer than we expected, thank you! - and we’re back to the final chorus with a great breakdown to start before the parts come back in to finish out the track.
The rest of the tracks on this EP are just as solid with a great diversity of pop styles and tones, but the common thread is in personal lyrics and strong vocal capabilities. “Medicine Boy” is probably our favorite (great hook!), but we love the 80’s tones of “New Wave” and “Outgrow.” “Two Sparks” is a delicate and punctuated heartbreaker about two very similar people - definitely one to check out as well. Love her delivery on this track!
Make sure you scroll down and check out her earlier work. We really dig “This Feeling” from 2018 and it’s Paramore meets The Cranberries vibe. “Not the Girl” with its pure synth pop sound, and the remixed versions of “Afterglow” (that’s always a great way to increase spins and gain followers!). With her following and strength of material, there’s no doubt she’ll continue to make a big name for herself.