Compelling in its serene soundscapes and emotive vocal drives, Moon River is a ravishing new EP from Nathav. The most recent challenge by Mathilde Lunderskov impresses with its downtempo alt-pop captivation, emphasizing themes of overcoming heartbreak. Nathav follows Lunderskov’s different successes — because the lead singer of Scandinavian indie-pop band Lovebites, the founding father of dream-pop/noir band Blake, and half of the synth-pop duo Umatic.
The opening observe enthralls with its palpable vocal emotion and chilly structural expanse. A dreamy piano-led mystique enhances a solemn opening vocal chorus: “You continue to miss her.” Lyrical depictions of letting go of a previous love, even when adoration burns crimson, show wholly affecting. The swelling vocal momentum and wintry keys mix for a trendy immersion, melding electro-pop with a bluesy vocal spirit. “Boy Mannequin” ensues with a downtempo electronica route, feeling cinematic in its slice-of-life depictions. A younger male mannequin in New York takes middle stage, working by means of the evening “on this no man’s land” — artfully capturing perseverance, loneliness, and a want for escape in a world full of temptation.
A transparent standout, Moon River is a riveting showcase of Nathav’s knack for gripping tonal evolutions. Whereas the primary half stirs with Hollywood-inspired balladry, the second half delivers a warning: “Don’t be fooled by a reasonably face.” Pit-pattering percussion, twinkling keys, and sullen vocal results intertwine with highly effective affect. The EP finale, “Take a look at Us Now,” compels with glistening lushness and introspections on a relationship’s closing demise. It’s a unbelievable nearer with understated delicacy, capping off an EP that includes 4 emotive and atmospheric tour-de-forces.