Whether you want to admit it or not, TULLE is the benchmark for what an indie artist should look and sound like. Addressing complex personal themes such as pain and rebirth requires exceptional empathy from musicians to convey their deep feelings to the audience. It is with such an emotional release that TULLE returns. On June 14th, TULLE released her debut EP “Onions,” covering themes of faith, acceptance, and healing. When artists dare to address such sensitive existential issues, it undoubtedly highlights their mastery, but I think it speaks most of all to their significant courage and openness. To her audience, TULLE is just that—an open book, although undoubtedly this book is full of mysteries that need to be unraveled.

photo by Vetle Nordli Skjeggestad

The debut EP opens a new chapter in her musical career. It markedly differs from her earlier works, which could be described as “death pop” with gothic elements. In this release, TULLE delves into her personal experiences, exploring themes of grief and metamorphosis. TULLE describes it as a process of “peeling layers,” allowing her to relive past moments and mourn each memory before she can finally let them go. I was impressed by how the new release sounds more restrained, sublime, and solemn, in contrast to her darker early songs. The absence of heavy death pop elements makes the EP more accessible to a broader audience, inviting listeners to empathize with this emotional journey together.

Even before the release of the record, I was incredibly intrigued by the choice of the title “Onions.” Why “Onions”? It might have seemed like a strange choice, but now, I think I understand why TULLE decided on it.

TULLE herself says that “Onions” is an EP about “peeling layers and healing.” This onion metaphor undoubtedly reflects the complexity of human nature and our journey of self-discovery. Each layer we peel away reveals new corners of our soul, and it’s not always a pleasant process. TULLE shares that writing this album was challenging because it required her to confront difficult moments in her life face-to-face.

TULLE’s new sound unfolds in “Oh Holy Father,” but the track still adheres to a dark beat and deep basses. Its dynamics are striking. The clean sound and pumping rhythm are irresistible, compelling you to follow. Religious themes, disappointments, and supplications become central to the EP’s sound. I must highlight the track “Can’t Be Saved,” where the perfection of TULLE’s sound acquires an almost tangible nuance. The light pop country sound in this track sets it apart, making it timeless and universally relevant.

photo by Vetle Nordli Skjeggestad

The track “Jesus Isn’t Here, He’s on Hiatus” feels like a liberation with its monologue. Throughout the EP, TULLE consistently maintains her refined sound. A real suspense unfolds in “Eulogy,” where the atmosphere solemnly builds up and breaks down into a pop acoustic sound. Listening to the track, one cannot help but feel the influence of Christian music, reflected between the beats. TULLE’s vocals here are supremely sublime. Very sensual and impeccably produced, with commercial hooks, “Eulogy” becomes my favorite on the EP. TULLE’s high vocals are incredibly spine-tingling!

However, TULLE saved the sweetest for last. One of the most ambiguous, vivid, and memorable endings occurs in “You’re Scaring Me!” This electric dark pop track shatters the sound of the EP into fragments. The scream, pain, disappointment, and distant, faded vocals of TULLE following a bright and sublime track leave ground for reflection. Is this a beginning? This track seems to reflect the pain, gloom, and despair that claw at the subconscious.

In the dark pop sound, TULLE feels perfectly at ease, and with her new release, she has demonstrated that she can master any mood, not just the somber ones. By blending everything in “Onions,” we get an original vision of various emotional states. I absolutely recommend everyone listen to the EP “Onions” by TULLE. You will discover the amazing TULLE and her music, which can support you, shake you up, and undoubtedly help you find the strength to move forward. A flawless release!

*This review was made possible by SubmitHub