I introduce you to Kingbird, a new project blending electronic, experimental, and folk elements. Kingbird is a one-woman band fronted by Ezgim Özgül, who handles all the instruments and vocals. Drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Björk, Nick Drake, and John Grant, Kingbird allows Özgül to express herself with raw honesty and creative freedom, shedding any self-conscious restraints.
The debut EP, “Executioner,” by Kingbird, released on July 12th, 2024, is a profound exploration of the theme of destruction within creation. This sonic journey challenges traditional boundaries, intertwining haunting melodies, intricate beats, and evocative lyrics to create a truly unique listening experience. Recorded entirely in Özgül’s bedroom using a MIDI keyboard, a mic, and a DAW, the EP reflects a year-long creative process that began last summer. The five tracks on “Executioner” explore various forms of destruction, from self-destruction and emotional turmoil to the act of destroying another person. This theme is not tied to a specific event but is a pervasive undercurrent throughout the EP, highlighting the dual nature of destruction as both painful and, at times, a source of relief.
Executioner EP Track List:
In A Dark Time:
“In A Dark Time”, the second track on Kingbird’s debut EP “Executioner,” is a mesmerizing adaptation of a Theodore Roethke poem. The song starts with a captivating, rhythmic sound that brings to mind a classic atmosphere. This initial segment is distinguished by its eerie, rhythmic nature, captivating the listener with a richly atmospheric sonic landscape. The complex instruments provide a strong base for the song, preparing for the upcoming vocals.
When the singing starts, it brings an enchanting sound that enhances the overall atmospheric feel of the track. Ezgim Özgül’s performance combines ethereal and powerful elements, infusing the lyrics with a feeling of supernatural beauty. Her voice blends perfectly with the eerie beat, forming a piece that is both captivating and evocative. The track’s wide range, spanning quiet introspective moments to intense crescendos, demonstrates Özgül’s skill in expressing intricate emotions through her music.
Even with its dynamic elements, “In A Dark Time” retains its eerie power consistently. Özgül’s skillful composition and vocal prowess are evident in the track’s ability to stay engaging while maintaining its eerie charm. The music’s atmospheric quality, paired with Roethke’s poetic depth, creates a track that is hauntingly beautiful and deeply moving. It serves as a standout feature of the EP, showcasing Kingbird’s distinct sound characterized by a mixture of electronic, experimental, and folk components.
Safe Step:
The fourth track on Kingbird’s debut EP “Executioner,” “Safe Step,” begins with a suspenseful musical arrangement that immediately sets a mysterious and intriguing tone. This introduction creates excitement, pulling in the audience to a sonic environment that is both welcoming and ominous. The music’s suspenseful quality sets the stage for the vocal entrance, heightening the emotional impact of the track.
When the singing starts, it does it with a soft, peaceful, and captivating sound that contrasts nicely with the tense background. Ezgim Özgül’s soothing voice brings a calming presence to the music’s tension. The music keeps playing, staying in a steady beat as eerie sounds float over, providing more complexity and mystery. The combination of the consistent, tense beat with the otherworldly, eerie layers results in a deep and engaging auditory journey.
In “Safe Step,” Özgül maintains a soft and captivating vocal style, offering a feeling of consistency and comfort. On the other hand, the music maintains a suspenseful beat, with added eerie components that enhance the track’s spooky charm. The fusion of these components leads to a song that is engaging and thought-provoking, demonstrating Kingbird’s skill in mixing different musical tones to create a unified and captivating piece.
Under The Sun:
In the debut EP “Executioner” by Kingbird, the fifth and final track titled “Under The Sun” envisions a world on the brink of destruction. This song creates a peaceful vibe, evoking a feeling of tranquility and reflection that stays present the entire time. The calming music in “Under The Sun” is complemented by Ezgim Özgül’s tranquil vocals, resulting in a peaceful and introspective musical atmosphere.
While listening to the track, the listener becomes surrounded by a tranquil atmosphere, soothed by the soft melodies and Özgül’s calming vocals. The calmness of the music and singing provides a sharp difference to the underlying theme of the song, suggesting a coming apocalypse. This contrast enhances the emotional effect of the song, luring the listener into a sense of safety before the intense ending.
The highlight of “Under The Sun” occurs near the conclusion, at the 3:56-minute point. The peace is disrupted by the sudden arrival of noises like crashing objects, people screaming, and gunshots in the distance. The loud and disorderly sounds, in contrast with Özgül’s peaceful voice and calming music, strongly indicate the apocalypse. This surprising and powerful ending leaves a memorable impact, emphasizing the song’s themes and concluding the EP in a dramatic and thought-provoking manner.
Every song on the EP highlights Özgül’s careful focus on detail, captivating and compelling the listener with their vocal delivery and instrumentation. The pieces are expertly made, showcasing perfection in both their organization and performance. “Executioner” showcases Kingbird’s talent for pushing musical boundaries and producing artwork that connects with audiences on a profound emotional level. This debut EP sets a high bar for future music releases and has listeners excited for what’s to come from this innovative project.
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