Alternative Pop from Tam Alawa

London-based singer-songwriter Tam Alawa has been a cherished figure in the world of alternative pop over the last few years, threading elegant songwriting through a sound that brings together both the organic and the electronic. Raised in Singapore before returning to the UK, her transcontinental upbringing infuses her music with a global perspective, offering a personal reflection that’s outward-facing in its emotional impact.

After finding her artistic voice at Goldsmiths University, Tam began shaping a style that resists formula, favouring mood, honesty and atmosphere over commercial ambitions. Her work draws on a delicate sonic fabric, pairing serene, piano-led melodies with soft string layers and understated electronic textures. Her voice, airy and controlled, glides through each track like a guiding light, anchoring songs that often feel like intimate, late-night conversations. With themes of love, identity and quiet defiance running through her work, Tam uses music not just as a form of expression, but as a tool for self-excavation.

Tam Alawa first made her presence known in 2022 with her debut single “Bring Me Back,” a track that introduced listeners to her engaging songwriting and ability to turn emotional context into immersive sonic worlds. That early success translated into widespread streaming traction and led to a string of releases that positioned her as one to watch in the UK’s alternative pop scene. A live performance at The Great Escape Festival that same year only reinforced her potential as a poised and magnetic artist.

After a short hiatus, Tam returned this year with a trio of new singles; February’s “Foundations” marked a step forward, produced by Roo Pigott and revealing a more confident and sonically expansive Tam which she followed with “Lifeline” and now her latest offering titled “Whisky.” Born from a spontaneous writing session with her guitar, “Whisky” sees Tam collaborating once again with Roo Pigott, as well as Rich Huxley and Jeremy Rompala, resulting in a track that unfolds with delicate purpose, balancing thoughtful lyricism with a quiet cinematic quality.

From the sweep of warm instrumental textures, Tam’s bright voice drifts in as the arrangement rises around her voice with pattering percussion, soft guitar strums and intricate synth pips, forming an immersive alternative pop scene. Gliding with infectious melodic leads and inviting instrumental tones, the track deftly balances playful synth flickers with poignant songwriting to craft a truly enticing sound that’s unique and utterly captivating.

Capped by her expressive vocal performance and wrapped in a transportive aesthetic, “Whisky” distils nostalgic writing with a thoroughly forward-thinking sound. As she continues to go from strength to strength on her welcome return to the music scene, 2025 is shaping up to be the most exciting year yet for this enduring artist and her highly compelling musical vision.

Listen to Whisky below

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