Whooooooa, now I can say right off the bat that Ōtautahi singer Keren Mara has got SOME set of pipes! Her new single Under The Wind, a bewitching and lilting dream-pop/folk number, shows you this in no uncertain terms.

Together with duo partner Harry Finalyson-Hood, Keren recorded and produced the song in her home studio, prior to getting it polished up by Jackson Levi. We’re treated to some lush, understated bottom end rhythms that retain the warmth and swaying vibe, accompanied by some nicely weighted strummed acoustic guitar. Keren has added some harmonica to the mix, and that made me smile as it rises up as a sweeeeet fade-in nice and early. It’s a great addition and adds an extra organic feel to an already living sound.

The real highlight here is Keren‘s vocal performance. The lady has several octaves. The gorgeous, and well constructed and composed lead vocal melody suits her timbre perfectly as she goes from a rich, warm mezzo-soprano in the early verses through to out and out soprano in the choruses. Some really tight, nicely countering harmonies sit beneath the lead, adding further to the overall top level vocal delivery. Really nice.

I know there’s a video on the way, which I am looking forward to adding to the review. Meanwhile, it’s on Spotify, and if you’re a fan of the easier-going sound, of dream-pop, of folk, any of this stuff is going to hit home with a few minutes given to this track.

Keren went through some severe life trauma only a few short years ago. The song here is meant to be aimed at the subsequent dealing with it. From the EPK: “This song acts as a mantra of knowing your inner strength,” says Keren. “It’s about finding peace in the darkness, and also knowing it’s ok to feel and express emotions.”

2024 is planned as a big year for Keren Mara. Based on this release we’ll definitely be hearing from her on air. I want to see her getting on the road with this stuff, which I’m sure she’ll do at some point. It’s one I will be listening to on my commute to the glorious – if getting quieter and emptier – Wellington on the train from Wairarapa. Pick your own sweet spot for a listen: this song will fit you in.

Pick this up on the Spotify, and keep an eye out for the video on the You Tubes. Keren Mara – that’s the name.