Based in Geelong, Stonnii is a multi-talented Australian songstress who wears her creativity like a badge of honor and refuses to be confined to a single genre. Her captivating debut EP, “Better,” released on May 2, is a testament to that. So, buckle up for a genre-bending ride through indie pop, neo-soul, and Aussie soft rock, all wrapped in her alluring vocals and a message of hope that will stay with us. “Better” is a collection of four introspective gems, each born between 2020 and 2021. While personal hardships initially stalled the project’s momentum, Stonni’s decision to release it as a solo effort in 2024 is a gift to us all. The beauty of this EP lies in its thematic unity—a search for brighter days, even amidst the inevitable storms of life. Stay with me as I delve into each song for a ‘better’ ride.
Our journey begins with “Sunny,” a song that embodies resilience in the face of hardship. Stonni’s vocals are a revelation here—soulful and tinged with a sad sweetness, they perfectly capture the yearning for brighter days. The stripped-down instrumentation, with its gentle piano chords, acoustic guitar, and soft percussive beat, creates a safe space for her voice to soar. As the song progresses, the layers subtly build, mirroring the growing determination in the lyrics, “Seasons change / I know you can’t shine every day; life is strange; but I love you anyway.” It’s a testament to the power of love as a constant source of strength, even on “grey mornings.”
Next up is “Monday,” a relatable anthem for anyone who’s ever felt trapped in the daily grind. Stonni’s voice perfectly captures the ennui of staring down another work week with lines like, “Once again, Monday morning comes around. I know I set 6 alarms, but I don’t hear a sound.” The frustration with corporate monotony explodes in the heavy guitar riffs and pounding drums. This song is a powerful call to action, urging us to break free from the soul-sucking system.
With “Cake,” Stonni tackles a surprisingly common theme, the birthday blues, as she opens up with lines like, “I can’t be the only one / Who thinks that birthdays are no fun.” These lines immediately establish a relatable vulnerability. In this song, her vocals weave through, sometimes melancholic and sometimes laced with playful sarcasm. Also, the minimal instrumentation, featuring Leon Antonov on guitar, underscores the emotional weight of the lyrics. Despite the introspective lyrics, the production retains a light touch, particularly in the chorus’s refrain of “I still eat cake after July,” a reminder that Stonni can still find joy despite her birthday woes.
Finally, we conclude the journey with “Bad Days,” an anthem wrapped in resilience. Stonni’s alluring vocals take center stage, seductive and strong, weaving between a simple guitar line and a driving beat. The industrial vibe, inspired by “Gordon Ave,” pulsates through the lyrics that mention “bald tires” and “dumpster fires.” Yet, Stonni’s voice soars above it all, reminding us that “Even angels have bad days” with a wink. This song is a celebration of the human spirit and finding hope even amid chaos.
In conclusion, “Better” is more than just an EP; it’s a promise. A promise that things will get ‘better,’ a promise to find joy in the little things, and a promise to embrace the challenges that life throws our way. With its relatable themes, captivating melodies, and stunning production, this EP is a must-listen for anyone who needs a dose of hope and inspiration. So, let’s dive into “Better” and let Stonni’s music uplift our spirits and remind us that even on the toughest days, there’s always hope for a brighter tomorrow
Listen to the “Better” EP by Stonnii on Spotify or SoundCloud and let us know your thoughts.
You can follow Stonnii on Instagram and Bandcamp for more information.
