Abigail Wyles

Hometown: Essex
Lineup: Abigail Wyles (vocals) and Holly Simpson (production)
For fans of: Bat For Lashes, Nadine Shah
Key track: ‘Mantra’
See her live: Abigail is yet to announce any live dates
Connect: Facebook | SoundCloud | Twitter

With the ink still drying on her MTA Records (Nero, Dream Mclean) deal, Abigail Wyles dropped debut track ‘Mantra’ late last month.

‘Never been a big talker/Indeed I’m circumspect by nature,’ she sighs smoothly in her opening gambit; reflecting an intention to let the music alone make lasting first impressions but perhaps also indicative of a self-conscious young talent not wholly comfortable with frontwoman status.

Vocally the Essex-born Londoner shows huge depth and maturity, echoing the haunting operatic tones of both Whitburn chanteuse, Nadine Shah. Although coupled with long-time collaborator, Holly Simpson’s steamy, swaggering electro-soul backing, ‘Mantra’ has a definite Bat For Lashes whiff emanating from its softly whining synths, skittish bass oscillations and sharp, poppy hand claps.

Raised on a diet of Kate Bush, Fleetwood Mac and The Eurythmics, it’s safe to say Abigail has solid reference points in creating her syrupy swirling pop. Sure, she mightn’t be a big talker but this certainly isn’t the last time you’ll hear Abigail Wyles’ smoky cooing this year.

‘Mantra’ is out 11 August via MTA Records with a full-length record to follow shortly.