With her folk compositions as dark as they are touching, Safia Nolin has been captivating critics and audiences for several years now. Emotional and sincere, her lyrics inspire and reveal her unique world.
Safia Nolin, a unique figure in the contemporary art scene, embodies a powerful political voice. Her journey is one of identity quest, exploring difference and marginality. As a racialized woman, a lesbian, and an artistically unconventional individual, she challenges societal norms and expectations. Her aesthetic, both raw and poetic, is a celebration of imperfection and authenticity.
In her new album, UFO RELIGION, Nolin expresses a profound sense of alienation, a desire to escape from a world that does not recognize her. Through minimalist melodies and raw instrumentation, she delivers an introspective work, blending melancholy with hope. Nature, both a refuge and a source of inspiration, becomes a character in its own right in this album, offering a counterpoint to human alienation.
Recorded in nature, this opus is imbued with a visceral urgency. It reflects a process of transformation, an artistic rebirth. Like a chrysalis ready to emerge, Nolin breaks free from her chains to fully assert herself. Her music, at the crossroads of folk, grunge, and stoner, is an invitation to an inner journey, a call to authenticity.
Du folk fragile de naufragé, des chansons bouteilles à la mer auxquelles on a pu s’accrocher comme à des bouées.
Les InrocksThere’s a sensitivity that’s fantastic. It’s tough. It’s real. But melodically, it’s so strong that it brings you somewhere else altogether. I love this woman. She’s completely different from everyone else. And she’s super young.
Laurent Saulnier, Francos de Montréalun deuxième album étincelant […] treize chansons folk frappantes de vérité […] un album généreux, gorgé de chansons écorchées.
TSUGIDans le noir is a collection of scathing, no-holds-barred mostly stripped-down folky tunes that is anything but light, fluffy pop fare. It’s also pretty great. […] it’s a strong collection.
Brendan Kelly, The Montreal GazetteElle a un talent fou pour communiquer quelque chose de super intime qui se passe au fin fond d’elle-même […] une poésie super intéressante sur une musique très dépouillée, presque lo-fi, presque grunge.
Rebecca Makonnen, Esprit critiqueNolin has written 13 raw songs about failed relationships and self-image, her beautiful voice breaking your heart with each verse she finishes.
Holly Gordon, CBC Music