Sivan Levy is a unique dream pop artist who combines classical instruments, modern synth, and haunting vocals. She’s just come to my attention through the recent release of her latest record, the second part of a double EP project. Side: s was released in June last year and now it’s the turn of side: w.

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Alon Shastel

Not content with simply being a musician, Sivan is a composer for film and television, and is also an award-winning actress and filmmaker. She’s featured in films such as My Daughter My Love which premiered at the Jerusalem Film Festival.

Her latest project unflinchingly dives into the human psyche, taking on its darker aspects through immersive storytelling and some unconventional compositions. Yet, where there is dark, there is also light and for every difficult confrontation Sivan delivers, there is a tonic to sooth us.

The EP opens with Forget, a track that calmly but inevitably draws you in before building to a rich and eerie crescendo. From there, the emotion doesn’t let up through the pleading and melancholic Kick Off, the dreamy and minimal My Far Away Femme (one for fans of early Goldfrapp) and the cinematic, folk song-esque When the Winter’s Coming In. Rounding things off are the pulsating, introspective Steams and Silent Legs, a final twist in the tale that brings with a malleable vibrancy.

There’s no-one else out there like Sivan Levy. Truly a master of the arts and performance, she is able to project her unique character while creating music that’s utterly captivating. I’m so glad to have discovered her work. She’ll be going right into my rotation.

SIDE: W was written and performed by Sivan Levy with production, programming, guitar, bass and vocals by Yoav Rosenthal, programming, percussion and drums by Giori Politi, cello by Maya Belsitzman, and synths by Yael Enosh. Nicolas Vernhes did the mix. The EP is available on all major streaming platforms and you can check it out below.