Photo: Polly Hanrahan
Prolific New York City based Swedish-Iranian artist Ayelle has released her captivating new single ‘Overtime’, the fourth of 2020 ahead of the release of her debut mixtape NOMAD in May. Combining elements of R&B and urban pop, the single’s beautifully understated synths and a dutifully measured pace provide the perfect backdrop for Ayelle’s smooth and soulful vocal to work its decidedly emotional magic. On the determined clear eyed gut feel theme running through the track Ayelle states;
“Overtime’ is about not expecting a relationship to become anything serious. But deciding to keep spending time with each other even though there are a thousand logical reasons why it shouldn’t work, such as distance and being at different points in your life. But when you’re not looking for anything serious is usually when it hits you. This song is about those early stages where you decide to give something a go against all odds because it just feels right.”
The forthcoming 12 track mixtape NOMAD was appropriately named for not only the extensive travel she has clocked up over the past two years but for her restless nature and lack of attachment to one place in particular. In a recent interview with Niji, Ayelle explained;
“Throughout my life I’ve never felt fully rooted anywhere. I grew up in Sweden and Spain, I’m half Iranian, I lived in London for 7 years and my family is spread across the globe. On my dad’s side my family comes from a nomadicc tribe ( called ‘Qashqai’ and this resonates with me a lot as I can never seem to stay in one place for too long. Every song on this mixtape represents a part of that journey and something I’ve learnt about myself, or something I’m still trying to figure out.”
‘Overtime’ (we think) marks Ayelle’s 40th single (either solo or collaboration) since 2016 and her 17th since the beginning of 2019, written, recorded and independently released in combination with said travel. Co-produced with Greek producer Stavros, let its gentle strength impress you no end below. Watch out for NOMAD’s release on May 15 and access the single here.
Overtime
Ayelle (SWE)
From the forthcoming mixtape, ‘NOMAD’, Self Released. May 15.
Audio Stream
NOMAD Cover Art