SallieMae Has a Bright Future Ahead with ‘Simula’ EP
In a time where art helps to shoulder the weight of a fractured world, it feels increasingly rare to come across music that explores positivity by way of earnest affirmations. Graceful and grounded, the SIMULA EP by Calgary artist, SallieMae, is a musically adept project with a refreshing point of view. Throughout these five tracks, the jazz-inflected neo-soul vocalist looks inward while simultaneously reaching out to listeners with warmth and tenderness. As a debut, SallieMae shares thoughtful songwriting and arrangements filled with subtle variations that result in a listening experience as radiant as it is enlightened.
SIMULA refers to the Tagalog word for “beginning” and listening to the EP feels like starting anew. From its opening moments, thankful remarks melt away to reveal a deeply resonant and emotional core.
The biggest standout moment is undoubtedly “Rhythm & Rhyme”, which packs a vintage groove informed by tentpole pop acts like Mariah Carey and Ariana Grande, coupled with the instrumental sensibilities of India.Arie. It’s brought together by soft picked guitar, a lightweight backbeat, electric piano, organ, as well as inspired lower vocal harmonies that add weight and distinction to lyrics like, “don’t let life make your melodies fade.” “Rhythm & Rhyme” inspires listeners to counter a loss of perspective by taking chances in life, as well as affording yourself the time and space to find peace.
The elegance of the music is amplified by a satisfying sense of cohesion that builds throughout its track list. Closing number, “Grateful” is a multilayered approach to gospel, both musically and instructionally, acting as how-to guide for greeting each day in support of an appreciative existence. Such a thorough exploration of mindfulness risks coming across as overly saccharine or forced. This however is not the case, as SallieMae’s stunning voice, and assured viewpoint is a potent reminder for listeners to continually pursue happiness. After hearing the SIMULA EP, it’s easy to imagine a bright future ahead as SallieMae brings these ideas to a longer project.