New discovery: E^st

Say hello to 16-year-old Melissa, a singer from Australia who trades under the lexicographically improbable name of E^st.

She came to attention earlier this year when she uploaded a single, Old Age, to Triple J's Unearthed website - sparking a record label bidding war (or, at the very least, some very enthusiastic emails).

It's easy to see why. With her treacle-deep vocals and claustrophobic arranagements, she sounds like Lorde on steroids. Her new single, The Alley, is a case in point. Spooky and spiky with a series of rippling piano chords, it is going to sound fantastic as the autumn nights draw in.

The video, shot at four in the morning on a freezing cold street, should put you in the right frame of mind. Although I'd avoid the molotov cocktails if I were you.

E^st - The Alley

Tweet