Aleesha Dibbs is an Australian multi-instrumentalist who has just come to my attention thanks to her debut solo EP, which explores the themes of transformation and self-actualisation. It’s called Paradise Lost.

By Graeme Smith

Though this is her solo debut, Aleesha Dibbs previously performed as part of DIVE BELL with plenty of favourable coverage and shared stages, so this first release as a solo artist is an exciting prospect. Its four tracks explore the idea change and growth, and the fact that it’s not always a pleasant experience.

The EP opens in suitably melancholic and contemplative style. Battalion is a haunting, slow-building number that transitions from calm and dreamy to challenging maximalism with aggressive bass and electronica that contrasts Aleesha’s soft vocals. It’s a rousing start that gets the listener excited for the journey that is to come.

Distance is a dark, psychedelic moment with visceral, poetic lyrics. An offbeat groove makes you squirm rather than move in your chair but there’s something utterly compelling about it. Conjured You Up is rich with biting storytelling and discombobulating, ethereal instrumentals. Comin For Me Now closes things in an eerie and atmospheric fashion.

Aleesha Dibbs’s solo debut collection is one of the most exciting records I’ve heard for awhile. With it, she eschews conventional wisdom on what music should be and forges an intrepid new path. If you’re tired of commercial pop then Paradise Lost is the breath of fresh air you’re looking for.

Paradise Lost was produced and engineered by Tom Crandles, and mixed by Kim Moyes. The EP is out …