CAROLYN – Erotica (Single Review)

CAROLYN’s debut single is every bit as enchanting and enthralling as a debut need be. With the singer unveiling her sultry voice over a rousing dance beat, CAROLYN introduces herself as an artist of both mystique and intrigue.

The charisma radiating off ‘Erotica’, an Indie/House song that champions CAROLYN’s skills in lyric writing and composing, immediately feels like something that should be expected from an artist already practiced and well-versed in their music style, not from a musician taking their first step into the industry. It is impressive then, that CAROLYN sounds so self-assured and comfortable on this track, which is a quality that makes ‘Erotica’ even more enjoyable and mesmerising to listen to.

As soon as ‘Erotica’ springs to life, the listener is transported to a faraway setting as melodious vocalisations pleasantly greet their ears and a sprightly dance beat steps innocuously into the mix. CAROLYN’s vocals are no doubt the highlight of this dreamy ambiance; her soothing yet seductive voice inviting listeners to bask in the wistful charm of this track. The starting lyrics also seem somewhat otherworldly: “Erotica, I am so exotica…” which CAROLYN sings in a moody, yet mellow tone that instantly succeeds in captivating audiences from the beginning of the track.

The song’s instrumental is both stimulating with its integration of a steady dance beat and undeniably ethereal; the groovy bass guitar riff beneath the vocal mix adding a light and airy quality to the track that is wondrously addictive. The song retains an even tempo throughout; its subtle incorporation of key elements of House music into an Indie base lends ‘Erotica’ a simple and unique elegance that is just too good to ignore.

The verses are decidedly more stripped-back; CAROLYN’s versatile and resounding voice is omnipresent over the playful bass line. Her delivery of the lyrics “You wanna touch me, you wanna rush me” is suggestive while still maintaining a melodiously soulful presence that diffuses throughout the track.

The appeal of ‘Erotica’ lies not only in the charm of its catchy minimalistic instrumental or the smoky voice of CAROLYN, but in the pairing of lines such as “Your hands on my skin, think about me” and the compellingly evocative tone that CAROLYN achieves through the smooth timbre of her vocals. During the song, listeners will be tempted to sink into this serene ambiance while still swaying to the lively beat.

The song brilliantly illustrates the speaker’s attraction to a love interest; expressing the strong desire she struggles to contain for him (“I don’t know Mama, he’s a problem”). The understated composition of the song really contributes to the tone of maturity and intimacy, with only CAROLYN’s vocals at the forefront of the mix.

‘Erotica’ soon branches out into even dreamier territory as CAROLYN exquisitely croons “I clear my head, on the beach of Marbella” over the soft strums of an electric guitar. The tropical, beachy feel of the track is amplified tenfold by the arrangement here; a quality that will unquestionably tempt listeners in with its sound of early warming summer vibes.

Finally fading out with some sunny vocalisations and a faint acoustic guitar accompaniment, ‘Erotica’ suitably ends on a celestial note; the echoing of the vocals allowing the atmospheric allure of the track to linger on long after the song is drawn to a close.

Score/Excellent: CAROLYN has superbly showcased her skills both to charm and attract audiences with her expert songwriting and bold voice. From the very first listen, ‘Erotica’s dreamy summer ambiance will appeal to listeners far and wide; effortlessly compelling audiences to submit to the song’s cool fusion of Dance and Indie. This may be the first time CAROLYN steals attention for her captivating voice and smooth music style, but it certainly will not be the last.

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[We rank singles, EPs, and albums on a scale of Poor, Mediocre, Good, Excellent, and Outstanding]