‘noman‘ is a truly outstanding debut single from an exciting new artist. Emie Nathan’s unconventional alt-pop is a sublime blend of Maggie Rogers and The Japanese House.
Soothing, feathery vocals build upon a darker, pensive production as Emie Nathan sings of being her own worst enemy as a “no-man”. This is the opposite of a “yes-man”, someone whose default response is “no” and who has a less enthusiastic or positive approach to life. We have all been guilty of being “no-men” lately, given the various lockdowns. The worldwide pandemic has caused us all to develop a non-existent social life, which then in turn has made us more prone to reclusiveness. With lockdowns lifting, it’s scary to have the choice to say “yes”, rather than the governments saying “no” for us. There is certainly power in saying no sometimes, but not to the detriment of making good memories with the people we love.
Nathan’s voice is soft and nuanced, but with a gorgeous depth and power behind it. She told Wonderland that her family have always been musical: “I grew up with jazz standards and female vocal standouts like Ella Fitzgerald, Eva Cassidy and Norah Jones”. This influence on her vocal ease and control is discernible.
‘noman’ is that lovely type of happy-sad music, like Lorde’s Melodrama, The Drums’ Portamento or even Current Joy’s Wild Heart. We’ll be waiting with open ears for Emie Nathan’s next release.
