According to Olina, her new single, Newspaper Smell, was “inspired by a summer I spent at Royal Ascot serving mac ’n’ cheese to top-hatted aristocrats who boasted they could buy our food van—then haggled over a £7 portion.”

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Loreta Tale

Newspaper Smell is moody indie rock with psychedelic undertones and an offbeat rhythm. Olina’s vocals make it stand out, expressive, unique and captivating. They’re quickfire in the verse before becoming unexpectedly laidback for a moment before a fiery chorus that leaves it all out there.

Contrast is deployed powerfully as the lyrics, which ruminant on the absurdity of class, stay rich with gripping storytelling throughout. Things kick up for the final minute, delivering an explosive instrumental crescendo.

Originally from Greece, Olina moved to the UK in her early 20s. She’s now based in London. If you’re a fan of Alanis Morrissette or Tori Amos, you need to check out her music.

Newspaper Smell is out now and you can give it a listen below.