Australia’s R&B siren PANIA offers an emotional coming of age on WE STILL YOUNG
"WE STILL YOUNG"
PANIA’s childhood may have been soundtracked by the surf breaking on Melbourne shores, but her latest musical offering delivers smoother waves of nostalgia, speaking on the thrills of youth, escapism and travelling the world.
Her sophomore EP, WE STILL YOUNG, allows her to showcase a depth that many new artists these days would be wary of in a ‘fast-music’ ecosystem (think an endless vortex of ‘sped up’ TikToks). In the title track, PANIA reflects on the pitfalls of relationships based on proximity, as well as introspection on how fast life can come at you – “And we still young / it ain’t worth being sad / bout the things / that we can’t take back.” There’s maturity but also youthful angst present throughout the EP.
The focus on live instrumentation on this project is evident and deliberate- important collaborations with producer HAMLEY- allowing PANIA’s unique vocals to punctuate pockets in between the tinkling of piano keys, over guitar solos, rhythmic drum beats and even flutes on “ALL MINE.” Whilst her debut EP burnt ur clothes & changed the addy leaned into R&Drill (the love child of UK Drill and R&B vocals) and Afrobeats-inspired instrumentals, WE STILL YOUNG changes up the tempo with layered slow jams like “P STANDS FOR PLAYA” and “GETTN OVA U” as well as a furious finale of Drum & Bass, “BURNA FONE” produced by Toddla T. Another nod to her love of UK music and culture.
PANIA is a star on the rise with no sign of burning out, already showcasing her talents in versatility and collaboration, having received much acclaim back home she is now bridging the gap internationally. As ‘Pop-R&B’ bubbles over in popularity and the Australian scene gains more and more attention worldwide, it will be interesting to see where her sonic journey takes her next.
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