Following the release of her debut EP 'Empty Hands‘, Flex caught up with singer-songwriter Eva Nolia Vae to find out more about what influences her eclectic sound. Known for blending elements of R&B and soul to create a sound both introspective and cinematic, 'Empty Hands' is a body of work you don't want to miss, be sure to check it out at the end of the article.
1. Hey Gypsy Boy - Jimi Hendrix
I used to listen to this song on repeat when I started to fall in love with guitar. It’s still one of my favourite guitar tones and of course I just love the way he plays (and everything about him). Not his most famous song but definitly the song of his that had the most impact on my relationship with guitar.
2. Come Rain Or Come Shine - Sarah Vaughan
This song made me fall in love with singing jazz. I used to listen to vocal jazz when I was a young teenager but it somehow got lost on me. This song brought me back to it. I didn’t really know Sarag Vaughan before listening to this song. Her voice and delivery, the lyrics and melody... I still remember the first time I heard it and how it just completely captivated me for months before I started to sing jazz myself.
3. Solid Air - John Martyn
John Martyn is one of my favourite artists and had a big influence on me. There was one winter a few years back where I mostly just listened to him. I love the way he makes music. I love his voice and how he writes and plays. He’s not one for compromises when it comes to music. Definitly also check out Small Hours. It’s my favourite last song of the day and has beautiful recording.
4. The Rainbow - Talk Talk
I listened to that album in my early twenties after a friend recommended it to me and it completely blew my mind. It’s one of those albums that’s best listened to on headphones with your eyes closed. When I need to remind myself of why I first fell in love with music I tend to go back to a little headphone session with Spirit of Eden by Talk Talk.
5. I Gotta Find Peace Of Mind - Lauryn Hill
There’s noone like Lauryn Hill. I especially admire the honesty and emotional depth in her music. Of course she’s also an incredibly skilled singer and rapper and lyricist. I chose I Gotta Find Peace Of Mind because of it’s imperfections. She’s not afraid to get emotional and to give it her all when she performs which I think is an attitude that serves all artistry.
Listen to Eva Nolia Vae 'Empty Hands'
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