Elly Kace, the acclaimed opera singer turned baroque pop indie artist, has released her latest single “if i ask” from her upcoming self-produced EP, if i ask enough could you love me, due out December 1, 2024. This track showcases Kace’s seamless blend of classical music with modern textures, creating a unique soundscape that is both subtle and engaging.
“If i ask” opens with Kace’s delicate, breathy vocals, accompanied by an intriguing mix of percussive elements, gongs, and reversed sounds. As the song progresses, the introduction of guitar, violin, and flugelhorn adds depth to the composition, building into a downtempo vibe that is as mesmerizing as it is introspective. The track’s structure shifts and evolves, exploring different instrumental textures that keep the listener captivated throughout its journey.
Kace, who has a rich background in both classical and contemporary music, wrote “if i ask” inspired by the sight of teenage girls taking selfies by a lake. She reflects on the human impulse to capture beauty, particularly the self-celebration that comes from feeling one’s own beauty from within. This theme is intricately woven into the song’s lyrics and music, creating a piece that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.
The track also features a remarkable ensemble of musicians, including Jack Broza on guitar, Darian Donovan Thomas on violin, Allison Philips on flugelhorn, Aaron Edgcomb on drums, and Isaac Levien on bass. Their contributions, along with Kace’s innovative production techniques, result in a rich, textured sound that draws comparisons to artists like Sigur Rós and The Beatles.
Elly Kace’s foray into composition and production during the lockdown period has led to a distinct sound that bridges the gap between her classical roots and contemporary music. With her previous pop album Nothing I see means anything and her latest full-length Object Permanence, Kace continues to push creative boundaries while staying deeply connected to her personal experiences and emotions.