There’s a wave of sexy electronica that’s currently sweeping the world. From the alternative sounds of FKA Twigs and Jessie Ware to more mainstream artists like Tinashe and even Ariana Grande, there are female artists across all levels who are absolutely killing it. Montgomery has emerged as the next artist to really fly the flag.
Shrouded in mystery, Montgomery got signed to I Oh You off the back of some SoundCloud momentum with two self-released tracks. At a generous six tracks long, her debut EP New Clear War gives us a good idea of her range and talent.
Kicking off with ‘Dust’, we get a feel for her synth soundscapes and delicate voice. Like a more blissed-out Chvrches and a less douchey Lorde, Montgomery gives us super-palatable pop songs without being bland. Bringing up the rear of New Clear War are the two strongest songs of the EP: ‘Pinata’ and ‘War Cry’, which introduces melancholy synth chords akin to Arctic Monkeys’ ‘505’, accompanied by a palpitating, synthesised heartbeat.
Simultaneously vulnerable and powerful, Montgomery opens us to the truth that while a person can break hearts, that same individual can also have their heart broken.
4/5.
New Clear Waris out now through I Oh You.
