Swedish rising artist Saga Faye has been engaging with fans and starting trends on her social media accounts, sharing early releases of her EP, East of the Sun, with 60 lucky followers
Faye’s music makes listeners feel like the main character by blending elements from dream pop, indie, Y2K nostalgia, and honest lyricism.
Originally released in 2024, “Who Are You” opens with lush arpeggios and the crushingly relatable line: “You said, ‘Hi,’ like I was a stranger / What is up with you?”
Going separate ways never sounded this sweet, as Faye pairs smooth vocals, a mellow drum kit, and subtle melodies with a lilting guitar riff.
Characterized by introspective arpeggios and inviting vocals, “Swedish Girl” is full of vulnerable lyricism. Through gentle guitar ostinato, soft piano, and clear vocals, Faye draws in the listener and tells the story of her personal journey, including the moments where things don’t go as planned.
The lyric, “I’ve been stuck in a loop for too long / I’ll be on my way another day,” resonates deeply with anyone who has tried to find themselves and explore their future. The harmonies she utilizes evoke a sense of hope and bittersweet nostalgia.
“Either Way” explores the hard truths of inevitably parting ways and coming to terms with the situation.
Opening with acoustic guitar, shuffling rhythms, and soft vocals, the instrumentals contrast with the brutally honest lyricism, as in: “You will go either way / I can't make you wanna stay / Right now, everything is feeling okay / But you will go either way.”
Setting the scene with dreamy guitar and sweet vocals, “Dance King” transports the listener to a nostalgic, Y2K-inspired jam.
Twenty seconds in, the music opens up to a sonic playground full of twinkling synth and poppy vocals. The care-free essence, paired with the lyrics, “Knowing tonight is all I have / And I followed the rhythm,” allows the listener to get lost in the dreamscape Saga Faye effortlessly paints. As the track starts to taper, we hear a melodic line inspired by classical piano sonatas and listen as it seamlessly melds with the synth.
“I Wonder” navigates feeling stuck, reaching out for connection, and wanting more with lines like: “Standing at a crossroad, I don't wanna stand still / It's always been this way and I know you know how I feel.”
Best characterized as bedroom pop, this last track is full of acoustic guitar arpeggios, steady tambourine, and breathy vocals. Stripped back verses cascade into the catchy pre-chorus, allowing the listener to get lost in thought with the lyrics. Twinkling rhythms, synthesized woodwinds, and a gentle piano melody close out the EP.
“Let's go, something's gotta change, I wonder / Do you ever feel the same?”
Catch Saga Faye as she headlines in London this November and goes on tour
