When I really like an album, I tend to listen to it over and over again. My roommate may find it a tad obnoxious to constantly hear the same music playing on repeat throughout our apartment, but if I really love a project I’m going to play it until I know all the words. Lena Stone’s self-titled debut EP has been that project for me recently. It’s all I’ve been listening to since it came out on May 25 and I have yet to grow tired of it.
The opening track, “Tragic,” is my favorite song right now. Based on the title, one would think it is a slow and somber ballad. However, it’s actually anything but. It’s a great blend of pop and country, reminding me a lot of Taylor Swift early in her career. It is the perfect summer song and I know I’ll be listening to it every day I’m at the pool.
“Nervous” is all about the beginnings of a relationship, when you’re still trying to figure out everything about the person and how the relationship is going to work. It’s flirty, playful and extremely catchy. This is the song from the EP I’ve been recommending to all of my friends. I can’t wait for all of them to learn the lyrics so we can sing it together at the top of our lungs as we’re getting ready for a night out.
The EP also includes “Hey There Hollywood,” which was co-written with Kalie Shorr. “Aren’t you tired of putting on a show? This isn’t how the story’s supposed to go. Hey there Hollywood, you’re trying too hard but it looks so good, slow down movie star, those big bright lights aren’t who you are.” It’s a unique take on an “anthem,” but it has a clear, strong message about always staying true to who you are.
“Running Out Of Red Lights” is Lena’s current single and the slowest of the five tracks. “I feel like it has this dark tension to it that kind of matches the emotion of the song really well,” she told me in an interview. Lena’s strengths as a writer are on full display with this track, proving to people who are not aware of her background that she is more than just a talented vocalist.
The last song, “Can’t Think Straight,” was inspired by Lena’s high school boyfriend and the year she moved to Nashville. The track has Lena reminiscing about the relationship and sharing some of the firsts she encountered during that time period. It’s passionate, authentic and a track anyone with fond memories of their first love can relate to.
When I talked with Lena about her EP, she said she hoped it “represents all of the different parts of [her] personality.” While I don’t know her personally, I feel like Lena succeeds effortlessly. Her project is raw, honest, and vulnerable while also being relatable, fun and bubbly. I like to think that if I ever met Lena in person she’d come off the same way she’s presented herself on her album.
Seriously, if you haven’t already, go listen to Lena’s EP. I have no doubt this is only the beginning for her.
For more information about Lena, you can visit her website or follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. You can check out her debut EP here.