EP Review: Life Changes

Just in time for the start of Hispanic Heritage Month and Chilean Independence Day, Kiwi-Chilean artist Amila debuts her EP Life Changes. Produced by Dan Martin, the five-track collection is a bilingual blend of dance-ready pop ballads, Latin beats and promising songwriting.

The duet of opener Break The Pattern tugs at heartstrings with little effort, as does the addition of alt-pop artist MACEY’s voice. The arpeggios and repetitive chorus work well with the song title, but I ached a bit for more ad libs or daring harmonies. Regardless, the ballad pulls us in.

Lead single Love Language is about first love and where we stand in those relationships when we overthink. Building on from muted 70’s guitar towards bright instrumentation and airy vocals, Amila’s emotions are further felt in the tentative yet boldly honest lyrics.

Must Be A Dream stands out as a rhythmic sensation of Latin sensitivity, merging the romantic language in surprising moments that delectably twist the mind as much as the hips. It’s a strong follow-up, or even sister, to previous standalone single Owe It All To You.

With Latin guitar and the confident attitude of Olivia Rodrigo on Changes, this was an enjoyable listen from start to end. Amila’s higher register and vulnerable narrative complements the masculine angle that featured hip-hop rapper Rhys Rich adds.

The slow burn space of Missing Out reflects its sentiment that “good things take ages”. Despite the withdrawn but beautiful production, if I were lucky enough to catch Amila live, I’d want to hear her voice in its rawest form with just the piano for this one. 

Amila has a tone and way of writing that could potentially benefit from exploring the RnB realm, in the same vein that Cuban American artist Lauren Jauregui has settled herself into. Her lilting voice soars from succinct pop lyrics, mature production and the tying-in of salsa rhythms that feel authentic. They fit like a glove with the groove of her sensual voice. This musician clearly has more to offer and, luckily for newer enthusiasts like me, she has plenty of time for that. Now, give her more stages!