Happie Hoffman, aka HAPPIE, returns to our blog with a touching tribute to love of all kinds, Real Love.

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Dave Creaney

Though this is our first time sharing her solo work, we have featured the music of Happie before. It was last summer when I was enchanted by her team-up with Miki Agrawal and Gene Evaro Jr., It All Exists, released under the name Soul Gaze.

Real Love is no less absorbing a prospect. Across its four tracks, it talks of love in different shades, starting with Close. The track opens with a spoken word confessional paired with ghostly vocalisations and plucked strings. The atmosphere is, of course, one of intimacy, reflecting the story of its lyrics sublimely. It’s a captivating and inviting start.

Title track Real Love keeps things intimate while bringing in some pop liveliness and elements of traditional folk. The resulting combination is intoxicating. It’s all expertly guided by the character of Happie’s vocals, backed by rich production and instrumental textures. It’s an exciting highlight.

Easy is a bright and dreamy moment before the collection ends with its latest single Shooting Star. A rare story of familial rather than romantic love, it dwells on her relationship with her father who she describes as a “monumental figure in her life and music.” Leaning into the country side of pop, we get lingering notes, gentle acoustic guitar and heartfelt lyrics. They’re beautifully observed and will have you picking up the phone to your dad.

HAPPIE has a sound like no other and the authenticity of her new EP makes it an instant favourite. Each note is infused with charm, and the spirit of her song writing is full of warmth. I can’t recommend it enough.

Real Love is out now and you can give it a listen below.