- Some artists are born with what seems like a lifetime of experiences to draw from. This is even more impressive when the artist in question is only twenty years of age, such as Sydney-sider Odette. Her debut LP To A Stranger is a an immersive look into her mind, narrated through a combination of soft r’n’b beats, soulful vocals and, yep, occasional spoken word poetry.
Opening track and single Collide captures the absolute vibe of Odette in its three and a half minute journey. Starting with soft piano tones, and subtle percussion, the track makes room for Odette’s emotive vocal to take position front and centre. Her voice cascades effortlessly around flowing melodies and gentle harmonies, immersing you immediately in a fully-fledged aural aesthetic - subtle yet deliberate.
Odette’s excellent lyricism comes to the forefront on Watch Me Read You, a semi-spoken-word piece. Arpeggiated piano riffs form the basis for the verse instrumental, and a soaring chorus provides contrast and lift to the track. The songs lyrics, while dark, melodramatic and metaphorical, show a kind of maturity that most people Odette's age simply cannot grasp.
However, it's not just the big moments on the record that hit hard, but the softer deep cuts that really cement the feeling. Fractured Glass incorporates more production, providing important dynamics to the record without killing the vibe and album closer Pastel Walls is full of clever harmonies that give you goosebumps even on the hottest summer day.
Odette has laid it all out on this record and it's apparent that she knows just how to really connect with her audience in a very personal and intimate way. Even as a stranger to her, the honesty and authenticity in her delivery makes it feel like she's someone you've known your whole life. An excellent show of musicianship, creativity and bravery from a young artist, To A Stranger is only the start of a promising and exciting musical journey for Odette.
- Olivia Shoesmith.