Raised in London, with Irish and Egyptian heritage, Shaefri’s music is as worldly and eclectic as you might expect. Her vocals, meanwhile, have a hypnotic, almost otherworldly quality to them, which combine to give her a sound that is truly her own. She has written with a number of artists and producers in the last few years, including Major Lazer, Christine and the Queens, and Daft Punk.

She has also worked on several movie soundtracks, including Binti, which was written and directed by Frederike Migom and screened at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival. Her first EP Cracks, released in 2017 to rave reviews, was a sombre offering, with deeply personal lyrics and a stripped back sound.

Fans will be pleased to hear that Girl retains the minimalist production and electro alt-pop sensibilities, and finds Shaefri in a similarly introspective mood. Title track Girl is an ethereal opener, and feels like a rallying – though not entirely optimistic – call to the women of tomorrow, as Shaefri sings: “Little girl I promise we’re trying to pave a way So your road’s a little easier than what we’re on today Now I’ll be honest little girl I’m not sure it’ll change But I know we’ll keep fighting, so it won’t stay the same.” 23 is more upbeat in tempo, set to a looping acoustic guitar, while Say You’ll Be There is a soaring number with richly layered vocals.

Kerosene is a beguiling track, a sharp guitar riff and a fast-paced, almost breathless at times, vocal (“She will burn your whole house down, she’s like Kerosene”) combine to create Girl’s standout track. The EP closes with Home, the release’s most upbeat track and a lovely sign off. Make no mistake, this is an accomplished record, and deserves to help Shaefri’s soulful music and absorbing lyrics reach new audiences.

Girl was released July 3 and is available to stream through Shaefri’s official website.

Girl track list:

1. Girl

2. 23

3. Say You’ll Be There

4. Kerosene

5. Home

 singer-songwriter