Stefan Eli - 'Nicer Car'

Icelandic artist/ producer Stefan Eli releases emotive indie pop song, ‘Nicer Car’.

Citing influences from Bon Iver to Frank Ocean it doesn’t come as much of a surprise to hear that Stefan Eli is creating music that not only spans multiple genres, but is very rich in affecting textures. ‘Nicer Car’ begins sparsely with a gorgeous acoustic intro before Eli’s emotive vocal comes in, setting the song off to an ethereal, contemporary folk-influenced start. As the track develops, Eli meticulously weaves denser layers into the song, most notably some cool electronic beats that give a minimalist dance vibe which juxtaposes a mournful piano arrangement, but then there’s some fiercer guitar influences that provide a rougher, rockier, edge and intensify the urgency of the song.

Thematically, Eli takes his listener through a story of romantic inadequacy and rejection on a superficial level as he laments, “‘cause he got a nicer car, and i’m too nice to you” and it’s hard not to be moved by the heartache and isolation as he confesses, “i’ve been lonely”.
’Nicer Car’ is quite simplistic in its lyrical honesty, but that does not make it any less moving, in fact that’s what makes it more impressive. Eli makes music awash with emotion that has a lot to say even in its moments of lyrical absence, as his production writhes with textures that evoke real feelings.

’Nicer Car’ comes in the aftermath of Stefan Eli’s most recent album, ‘I’m Lost. Please Return If Found' which shows off 13 versatile tracks offering something for everyone. I’m really glad Stefan Eli’s music has reached our ears here in London.

Words of Karla Harris