Olivesque’s new single ‘Berlin’ is a euphoric triumph
The Nightbus member releases the first track off her debut EP.
Photo: Gina Darwin-Gitonga
The singer of post-punk trio Nightbus, Olive, has just released Berlin, the first single off her debut solo EP, Mania. Berlin is an expertly crafted ballad that builds to a euphoric conclusion. The track navigates the medley of emotions that arise when one is sitting on the precipice of change, delivering an emotional gut punch through reflective lyricism.
One of the highlights of the song is its cleverly orchestrated melodies. What starts with a pensive guitar melody slowly but surely incorporates new layers, building to a gratifying climax in the form of a synth-pop bridge. The moment is unexpected but goosebump-inducing. The mood of the tune effortlessly oscillates from melancholy to ecstasy, capturing the conflicting feelings Olivesque aims to convey.
Olivesque’s lyricism is thoughtful and honest. Through Berlin, she chronicles the bittersweet cocktail of emotions resulting from the departure of someone she loves from her life. From hoping they’ll come back to realising it may all be for the best, Olivesque considers every angle of the situation. “I’m not that sad you’re leaving / We’ll be alright,” she proclaims as she ultimately settles on acceptance.
Overall, Berlin perfectly captures the interplay of dissonant emotions, channelling them into an inventive new track. The song is a very promising taste of what’s to come from her debut EP.