In 2013, Ellinor Olovsdotter, better known by her stage name Elliphant, released her debut full-length album, “A Good Idea.” With inflections of rap, hip-hop and synth-pop, the 29-year-old from Stockholm gathered a core group of followers from across the globe. While still a smaller name in the United States, Elliphant’s international and urban sound has been compared to the likes of artists like M.I.A. and a more aggressive Charli XCX. Despite these comparisons, her unique blend of alternative, synth-pop tunes and rapping has helped create a nearly unheard of sound.
With the release of her latest EP, titled “One More,” Elliphant will attempt once more at breaking through in the states. The EP, which consists of five tracks, is one of the artist’s strongest showings yet.
The title track off of “One More,” featuring Elliphant’s close friend MØ, is one of the EP’s most original tracks. Its mixes of a much softer alternative sound and a harsher beat help create a melody that is impressive. It’s an edgy debut outing for those new to Elliphant’s music and is the perfect tune for a long night’s walk home.
On “Purple Light,” Elliphant proves that she is a capable hip-hop artist. By far the most like M.I.A., this track plays similar to a classic rap track. Featuring Doja Cat, the song offers up danceable beats and coy lyricism that other rappers should take note of.
“Never Been In Love” is one of the EP’s softer listens. Most similar to a pop anthem, this track may be where comparisons to Charli XCX could be drawn. It has the most chance of mainstream crossover and with any hope, it will.
“Save The Grey” is the EP’s most powerful track. Fiery vocals paired with swirling beats turn this song into a ferocious track. It is one of Elliphant’s best songs to date. Very much like a lot of Stockholm’s underground music scenery, “Save The Grey” focuses on rawness rather than perfection.
Lastly, there is “You’re Gone.” On this track, Elliphant provides listeners with a darker sound than previously heard. Encompassing dimensions of dark-wave music, Elliphant’s “You’re Gone” is a haunting track with dub step influences. As the song bubbles just beneath the surface of a pop-song explosion, “You’re Gone” is gritty and intense. Given the right remix, it could be a dance club hit.
Overall, Elliphant’s latest showing is one of her best. Despite the similarities that could be drawn to other atists, Elliphant manages to turn herself in such a degree that allows herself to stand alone. While noticeably raw and untamed, this Stockholm songstress is nonetheless a gem.
