Bryan Estepa has an ear for the sweetest sounding pop melodies that glitter like the stars in the firmament, and we are honoured to give you an exclusive listen to his new double A-side singles ‘Version Of Me’ and ‘Smile Away’.
Estepa’s extraordinary ear for the light-as-air melodies and sweet refrains are at the fore with the new release. Estapa’s dabbling in yacht rock as a side project can certainly be seen to be an influence, with his mellifluous delivery and almost ambient easy smooth instrumentation.
‘Version of Me’ starts with a sprightly bop carried on crumbly guitars before his soaring vocals enter with the candy pop melodies: soaring with the indelible brilliance of something by ELO or Steely Dan in a gently tryst with the Teenage Fanclub: jangly and sweet power pop, gentle harmonies with an air of infectious optimism and hope.
Estepa’s nine year old daughter Audrey adds a gentle layer of vocals. Estepa says of the track:
Lyrically, this song started from a slightly frustrated and defiant viewpoint. Of that feeling of being underestimated and even discarded at times. But ultimately, that was fleeting because it’s more about self-acceptance and knowing you’ve got a lot to offer.
‘Smile Away’ is a duet featuring crystalline guitars and a gentler slower pace, Estepa’s vocals more reflective and the tone smooth and restrained with an easy liquidity. Vocals from Barcelona singer-songwriter Alice De Luis provide a deliciously groovy counterpoint in a song that has a tangible soul influence. Estepa says of this influence:
‘Smile Away’ came from my love of this music. I wanted it to have the hallmarks of that genre but mixed in with my style. I love Javi’s playing and production again (I remember him using Frank Ocean as one of his references!). Plus, the rhythm section of Juan Carlos Luque (bass) and Jonathan Zuriaga (drums) really shines in here.
Estepa says of the duet:
This song’s genesis came from me exploring and recalling that feeling of being in those early stages of that settled love-bubble that we can find ourselves in. The honeymoon period, some might liken it to, and probably the happiest times of a relationship. Importantly, I wanted this song to give the perspective of both partners. I was very lucky to discover Alice! From the moment I heard her beautiful voice, I knew that she would be perfect for this tune. No matter what style of music, I’m always a sucker for a girl-boy combo or duet in a song.
The result of both singles is an air of languid soulfulness, a smoothing panacea to a turbulent world, infused with a luminosity that is blinding and restorative. It’s no wonder that Estepa is building an international following for his pop song mastery and wide-eyed sense of wonder that runs through his craft.
The singles are out tomorrow (Friday, 4 April 2025) and available to download and stream via the link above and here.
