London-based Canadian singer-songwriter Athena Lim has enjoyed an exciting year of sharing her original material with the world, blending her multicultural background and varied influences into a sound that’s truly unique and thoroughly engaging. With Chinese-Filipino heritage on her mother’s side and a European background from her Greek father, Athena’s artistic world is a bright fabric of cultural and musical diversity.
Her indie folk sound, layered with pop appeal, reflects a wide-ranging appreciation for artists like Bob Dylan, Van Morrison and Dolly Parton, alongside her passion for jazz, funk, reggae and gospel music. Athena’s early immersion in music saw her pen songs since childhood, displaying a passion for storytelling through melody that only blossomed more with time.
Her decision to forego an acceptance to the Royal College of Art & Design in London in favour of pursuing her music career was a daring step and since then, Athena has been making an impression in London’s music scene, opening for established acts and earning the admiration of a growing fan base. Earlier this year, Athena debuted her music with the Valentine’s Day release of “Being Someone,” quickly followed up with her sophomore outing “White Dust.”
Now, following the release of her EP, Hello Frances, she bings us her latest release with the second single from her upcoming debut album with the song titled “Madrid.” Produced by James Atin-Godden, who’s been a creative partner throughout her artistic endeavour, the song takes listeners on a visceral journey, framing elements of intensity and fragility with a tribal energy.
Setting up a dreamy soundscape with wisps of instrumental textures, muted guitar tones and gently pulsing percussion, Athena’s airy voice drifts above to spin blissful melodies into the delicate arrangement. Progressing with the soft taps of the beat, the song builds with dazzling strings and the strike of a drum kit, dashes of intricate instrumental flickers pepper the mix as Athena’s stunning vocals, wrapped in an atmospheric fabric, soar throughout.
It’s an exceptional showcase of her charming songwriting and spectacular vocal flair, resulting in a stellar single that’s at once ethereal and energising, cinematic and grounded. With her debut album on the horizon, Athena Lim is set to go from strength to strength on her compelling musical adventure and we can’t wait to see what she’s got in store next.
Listen to Madrid below
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