Rating: NNN
This past February, Calgary’s Kiesza (aka Kiesa Rae Ellestad) became an internet star when her Wannabe-style one-take video for Hideaway went viral. Her buttery soprano pipes, hip-hop-meets-ballet moves and the song’s 90s dance trappings proved a killer combo for the former ballerina.
Now, she delivers a four-song EP for her ever-expanding fan base. More of the same bleeping, blooping, moody synth lines and thwacking bass continue on second single Giant In My Heart, as well as a sick male vocal hook that steals the song and sends it squarely into 90s deep-house territory. The whole EP – like the artist, born in 89 – is indebted to that decade, though hints of Bonnie Tyler and current EDM themes also penetrate.
Third track So Deep is a bit of a snooze, the only jam unsuited to pre-drinks or a spin class. But a slowed-down version of Haddaway’s What Is Love – with a very pretty piano arrangement – hits the mark. The swelling strings are a bit OTT, but that’s kind of Kiesza’s thing.
Top track: Giant In My Heart