German alternative singer-songwriter Sophie Hallberg releases her debut EP, Criminal, a five-track collection of songs exuding soul and pop savors.
Hallberg explains, “The “Criminal” EP, as my debut EP, generally embraces the idea of growth through escape. And I don’t talk about escape as avoidance but escape as a source of development. Whether it be from mental structures, relationships, or thinking patterns. To be honest, I’ve always had a strong need to not stand out as a person and not to clash with anyone. I am really struggling to accept that I am simply not a loud, attention-loving performer. I am loud in a different way. I am presenting my music and my feelings to an audience that might not understand what I’m trying to say, might feel offended, bored, or might make a fuss. Combining these aspects seems to be one of my biggest tasks in life. With ‘Criminal’ I start to break the iron.”
Up until recently, Hallberg was one half of Sweetlemon, whose other half was Hallberg’s sister, Lena. During the pandemic, the sisters started releasing solo material, with Hallberg dropping “Cooling Down In Fall,” in 2022.
The talented singer, songwriter, pianist, and designer started playing classical piano and singing at the age of four, followed by attending music school. She started writing her own songs when she was 12 years old.
In 2012, Sophie and her sister Lena formed Sweetlemon, producing and releasing two albums, Inner Rhythm, and Lifelong Romance. Eventually, the two sisters decided to spread their wings and pursue solo projects.
Highlights on the EP include “Cooling Down In Fall,” perhaps the best track on a gem of an EP. The song merges classical flavors with soul and pop, creating a gently, gorgeous harmonic flow, drenched in intimate vulnerability.
“Symptom Relief” rolls out on a bouncy beat topped by shimmering washes of color and Hallberg’s cashmere voice, at once sensuous and alluring. “You’re Not The One,” delivers undulating layers of soul blended with hints of swaying blues, imbuing the tune with tangs of melancholy.
“You’re not the one / A fool understands.”
Underscored by the crème de la crème voice of Sophie Hallberg, Criminal reveals her talent for shaping allusive sonic textures.