London-based singer-songwriter Hoian (pronounced ‘hoy-an’) is back with her enchanting new single ‘Waves’’.
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‘Waves’ is a brooding song about navigating the ups and downs of mental health and leaning on people closest to you for support. Its hazy sound draws on the likes of Portishead, James Blake and Blonde Redhead for inspiration.
“I wrote this track when coming out of a difficult time” Hoian explains. “The track reflects my experience that our emotions aren’t necessarily linear and that you can be great at one moment and suddenly struggle at another. But also knowing that if those feelings return, it will be easier if you lean on others for support.”
The track was entirely written and produced at home by Hoian, mixed by Cristian Perugino and mastered by Matt Colton (James Blake, Sampha, Arlo Parks, Little Simz).
It follows on from the release of Hoian’s first two singles ‘In The Ring’ and ‘Dancing Bears’ which saw her pick up support from the likes of Clash Magazine, BBC Introducing Merseyside, BBC Radio London, Soho Radio and Amazing Radio. She has also had inclusions on Apple Music’s ‘New in Indie’ and ‘New In Alternative’ playlists and Rough Trade’s ‘Counter Culture’ playlist on Spotify.
Hoian is the musical project of Zena Zerai, a musician and producer of Guyanese and Eritrean heritage, born on Merseyside and now living in South London. She combines influences from the likes of Radiohead, Sharon Van Etten and Sault to create a powerful, melancholy sound that defies categorization.
‘Waves’ is the latest in a number of singles to be released by Hoian throughout the year, covering topics such as life, love, and loss.
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