“Painless” is the debut album from British singer-songwriter Nilüfer Yanya. The album, which was released in 2019, has received widespread critical acclaim for its unique blend of soulful vocals, intricate guitar work, and introspective lyrics. The album’s ten tracks showcase Yanya’s talent as both a songwriter and musician, and offer a glimpse into the mind of a young artist coming to grips with the complexities of the world around her.
The album opens with “Baby Luv,” a mid-tempo track that sets the tone for the album with its dreamy guitar riffs and Yanya’s soulful vocals. The song’s lyrics explore themes of love and longing, with Yanya’s voice rising and falling in intensity as she sings about the ups and downs of relationships.
“In Your Head” is the album’s lead single, and for good reason. With its driving bassline and Yanya’s powerful vocals, the song is a standout track that showcases the artist’s ability to blend different musical genres. Yanya sings about the power of self-doubt and the struggle to overcome it.
“Paralysed” showcases Yanya’s ability to convey deep emotions through her music. The song’s sparse instrumentation and emotive vocals create a sense of vulnerability and intimacy, as Yanya sings about the pain of feeling trapped in a relationship.
“H34T R1SES” features a catchy guitar riff and a driving drumbeat. The lyrics are a commentary on the speed and superficiality of modern life, with Yanya singing about the need to slow down and take stock of one’s surroundings.
“Angels” is a slow-burning ballad that features a piano-led melody and Yanya’s powerful vocals. A reflection on the fleeting nature of love and the difficulty of moving on after a relationship ends.
“Safety Net” features a catchy guitar riff and Yanya’s soulful vocals. Yanya explores themes of insecurity and the need for a sense of safety and security in one’s relationships.
“Melt” is a mixture of a hypnotic guitar melody and Yanya’s soothing vocals. A song about the power of love to heal and transform, and the importance of letting go of past hurts.
“The Unordained” is more uptempo, with driving basslines and Yanya’s powerful vocals. A commentary on the pressure to conform to societal norms and the importance of staying true to oneself.
“WWAY HEALTH” an experimental track that features a mix of electronic and organic instrumentation. An hymn to the importance of self-care and the need to take responsibility for one’s own well-being.
The album closes with “Monsters Under The Bed,” a ballad that features a piano-led melody and Yanya’s emotive vocals. The song’s lyrics are a reflection on the power of fear and the importance of facing one’s demons.
Overall, “Painless” is a striking debut album that showcases Nilüfer Yanya’s talents as a songwriter, musician, and vocalist. The album’s ten tracks are a reflection of the artist’s struggles to come to grips with the complexities of the world around her, and the album’s introspective lyrics, unique blend of genres and emotive vocals, offer a glimpse into the mind of a young artist on the cusp of greatness.