Between the urban influences of London and Bristol, 20-year-old rising artist Hope Tala has crafted an inward-looking realm of serenity through her music and with her brand new six-track project, Starry Ache EP, we can step into this sonic oasis too. Of the newest additions to the EP, we’re drawn to the romantic vibes of ‘Valentine’. Blending neo-soul nuance with lo-fi strings, Hope Tala’s stargazing sentiments brush across the soft production. There’s a notable literary flair to her music, taking inspiration from master of the star-crossed lovers Shakespeare, as well as musical idols Lauryn Hill and D’Angelo. Of course, we encourage you to take some time to listen to the whole EP, which Hope Tala describes here:“The title of the project is taken from Donna Tartt's 'The Goldfinch' and can be found in an exquisite passage which describes falling in love. The two words seem to contradict each other in a way that perfectly evokes love as a feeling that is dangerous and beautiful and painful and breathtaking all at once, so 'Starry Ache' encapsulates the themes and ideas of the EP really well.” - Hannah Thacker