Kylo is a Toronto, Canada-based artist who has just come to my attention thanks to the release of her new EP. A reflection on leaving one’s 20s behind, and the emotion that comes with it, it’s called Retrospect.

By Graeme Smith

The significance of our third decade on this planet often doesn’t really hit us until later. When it does, all that you can do is reflect on ten years’ worth of highs and lows, and wonder how you’ve grown as a person through them. Kylo perfectly captures this sentiment in her new collection – five tracks that chart heartache, self-discovery and nostalgia.

The EP opens with Attention. It’s a slow-burning start, with a stripped-back opening verse that best showcases the captivating quality of Kylo’s vocals. As the track heads into its chorus, its electronic pop arrangement swells to a dramatic crescendo. A vibrant and emotional start, it proves the perfect welcome into Kylo’s world.

Closer has already been a hit in its own right and as part of this EP it provides a smouldering moment. Cantering percussion will have you nodding your head along while synths create a lush backdrop for Kylo’s heart-rendering lyrics. As the track reaches its climax it brings twinkling overtones and shades of light and dark.

Sunsets, which features Shadrack Jackman, is a simmering, introspective harmony-rich duet before Kylo’s hit Rerun gives us an EP highlight thanks to its relatively lively rhythm and heart-breaking emotional depth. Its post-chorus electronic arrangement is particularly delicious.

Title track Retrospect closes the EP with a hazy, thoughtful moment. Its distorted instrumentals create a sense of disorientation but Kylo’s warm vocals take us by the hand and lead us forward. It’s another highlight.

If you happen to be in Toronto on 13 December then you can catch Kylo playing live at The Drake Underground. The rest of will have to make do with listening to her on record. You can check out Retrospect below.