Loreen releases Nude EP and announces album release
Loreen’s 2017 has been somewhat turbulent so far. Five years after her Eurovision victory with ‘Euphoria’, she returned to Melodifestivalen, the Swedish preselection for the European contest, with the powerful track ‘Statements’, but never made it to the final. This caused some speculation about the future of her career, but if anything, it made her release new material sooner! Loreen left her label Warner and signed with BMG. “I really connected with BMG’s mission to support independent artists in a transparent way, but also keeping their creative interests close”, she stated. Last month she dropped her single ‘Body’, the first taken from a three track EP Nude, which is out now!

About first track ‘Body’, I wrote upon release: “The track is based on a thick beat which might not be radiofriendly per se, but the dreamy vocal melody lines and the catchy synths in the chorus do make you want to press the repeat button over and over again.” She followed this up with ‘Jungle’, a collaboration with Swedish recording artist Elliphant. This track marks a new path for Loreen, who subtly flirts with some dancehall and reggae influences. The ‘lose it like they do it in the jungle’ part is not one of the stronger hooks, nor the best lyrics she has ever written, but her voice does suit the change of pace and style.

Third and last track ‘Ocean Away’ could be described as more typical Loreen with dreamy, soaring vocals that only she can deliver in a so seemingly effortless way. The melodies are on point and then some for this one with a double hook in the chorus. Production wise she picked up some Drake-isms, without copying his style too much, which makes ‘Ocean Away’ sound relevant and contemporary. The Nude EP is a nice little snack for her fans to enjoy while they wait for her sophomore album, which is now scheduled for November. Loreen showcased she still has got what it takes, so I am intrigued to hear what more we can expect from her in the coming months!