‘Milky Way’ is the first single to be released from the upcoming album of Swedish based singer/songwriter Nathalie Nedeljkovic. Better known by her stage name Nouel, the musician describes her sound as “sleepy folk” but, whilst not wanting to disagree with her, I’m of the belief there’s a bit more to it. The delicate piano that sets the tone for ‘Milky Way’ is enchanting and full of warmth. The soft brush drum beat adds another element of “snugness” to the tune, and soon the comforting, whispery vocals of Nouel are introduced. Proving herself to be an exceptional lyrical wordsmith, Nouel says that ‘Milky Way’ can have “many layers of meaning.” A beautiful and all too rare thing in today’s music. Inspired by the likes of Laura Marling, Elliott Smith and Sufjan Stevens to name just a few, Nouel has formulated an exquisitely unique sound that will stand her in very good stead going forward.
‘Milky Way’ just sucks you in and glues itself to your brain in the most comforting of ways!
INDIE TOP 39
What does the song mean to you?
I wrote ‘Milky Way’ mainly as a form of therapy for myself. I needed to process some feelings that, at the time, felt heavy. The song is also a tribute to the person I wrote it about.
Who do you hope the song resonates with the most?
I hope ‘Milky Way’ will resonate with anyone looking for calm and comfort. The song is for anyone missing something – a friend, a loved one or a place (or maybe they just want to take an imaginary trip to space!)
If they’re fans of Simon & Garfunkels’ softness, The Shins’ genius melodies and Suzanne Vega’s storytelling – then hey, maybe ‘Milky Way’ is for them too.
What are your favourite lyrics in the song?
My favourite line from ‘Milky Way’ must be “I know it’s not easy to be dead when there’s so many ideas in your head”. I think this sentence summarizes the main character pretty spot on! Their restlessness and grand ideas makes it difficult for them to stay dead.
Tell us about your creative process and how the song came to be?
I mean, the story is pretty odd and I remember it like yesterday. A few years ago I went to a Marika Hackman concert alone in Brighton and in the audience there was a guy, who, like myself, went on their own. We started talking and it was nice to have some company, even if it meant being in the company of a stranger. Although, something about them didn’t feel too unfamiliar. They somehow reminded me of someone who had recently passed away so I got inspired and I decided to write a song about the night. The guy in the audience is a metaphor for missing someone, so you start seeing them in strangers.
I don’t think songs are supposed to be over-explained (even though I love to do that) but I would rather have my listeners find their own special meaning.
Make sure to connect with Nouel on Facebook » Instagram
Now you can listen to all the 39 songs in one place, right here on Spotify!
This coverage was created in collaboration with Musosoup as part of the #SustainableCurator movement.
