Elea May Bonnet might best be known as part of Japanese Television, but the multi-instrumentalist’s solo project, Ello Sun, has just released its debut EP. Sparked initially back in 2019, and stabilised by joining the London band, Ello Sun is a culmination of a journey through hard times.
Reflecting back to tumultuous times, Elea says “I started writing songs back in 2019. Everything was messy. I was drinking, I lacked confidence. I knew I had a voice, I just had to find it”. Emotions, self-exploration, demons and friends are heard throughout the EP. Boasting three songs that invite you into the exploratory world of Ello Sun, and isn’t afraid to show you those emotions wholeheartedly.
Beginning with ‘River’, the song opens with a sprawling instrumental. It’s a sound like no other. Comprised of analogue synths, violins and Elea’s vocals, a mysterious atmosphere is created, and feels so easy to fall into. It’s a great way to introduce and open the EP.
Elea says, “‘River’ was the first song I wrote for this project. It unlocked my creativity and confidence. Growing up in the south of France, I always had that deep connection with the water. However, at the time I started Ello Sun, I was depleted of that joy…my river is grey today”.
‘The Sun Is Poking Out‘ follows with a more intimate sound. Driven by the grooviest of bass tones, the song feels like a night time wander through some city streets. Proceeding with intrigue and a slight hint of caution. Elea’s vocals once again wash over the layers with this mystical drawl, which opens the door for further distorted melodies to enter our minds.
Ello Sun is a fascinating EP. It’s sound feels effortless to get into, and has a fluidity to it that allows it to seep into the crevices of the brain. Where I was drawn in by the structure of lead single ‘Utopia’ originally, I also enjoy the more abstract soundscapes of the other two tracks. It’s great, and already I wish there was more.