"Quit my day-job to put 'fearless' in my name."
This is the very first line of "Can't Have This," the debut single from Norway's latest musical export, HOWLOW. It feels like a personal statement from the artist to the listener, with lyrics meant to bring us up to speed on singer/songwriter Maria Haugerød's musical journey. As the lead singer of indie pop outfit Tammie Tambourine, this marks the artist's first solo release.
The track is a punchy electro-pop gem infused with Haugerød's unique voice, poignant and cool. The production is reminiscent of Sylvan Esso with downpitched vocal samples and simple, energetic beats.
Though not the most original, the lyrical content is open and relatable to any 20-something dealing with life's uncertainties and the perpetual search for fulfillment. Overall, a nice introduction to HOWLOW.
There is talk of an EP release from the artist later this year, though no concrete dates have been established. Keep up with the latest on her SoundCloud.
