London-based Greek singer-songwriter Olina makes a lasting impression with her visceral pop-rock anthem ‘Newspaper Smell‘. Inspired by the absurdist reality of serving mac’n’cheese to the British aristocracy, this track seeks to reconnect with one’s authentic self. Somewhere in between an anxiety spiral and healthy catharsis, this track chronicles a coming-of-age defiance when one feels lost and out of place. Whether you’re currently going through a transitional phase or not, any listener will be able to relate to that deep-seated dread that can crop up on you at any moment.
The song leans into carefree, catchy reminiscent of Courtney Barnett, a wild upbeat energy akin to Black Honey and a raw, frustrated energy like that of Blondshell. This dynamic composition hinges on contrasts, which weaves and bob with an elusive rapidity. This is all led by Olina‘s sarcastic, tongue-in-cheek, witty and biting honesty in her fiercely, emotionally exposed voice.
Accompanying this impactful single is a DIY-style music video, entirely shot and edited by Olina herself, which is an eye-catching visual translation of the track’s surreal tension. Like those dissociative moments in life, the video leans slightly comical as the artist tries to define her own cultural, geographical and mental identity. Once again, her artistry is so relatable as we’ve all experienced a sense of displacement to one extent or another. With its blend of vintage cinematography and everyday realism, the video echoes the song’s core message that we all find our own ways to cope with the world.
In short, ‘Newspaper Smell’ is a raw and unforgettable introduction to Olina‘s musical universe.
You can also listen to ‘Newspaper Smell’ in our Shades of Pop playlist.
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