There’s nothing quite like homecoming: whether that’s to yourself, a place, or a person that encapsulates the feeling. In Ivor Novello-nominated songwriter Elina’s ethereal new EP ‘A Place I Recognise,’ she captures that emotion, reflecting on returning to her rural hometown in Sweden after the chaos of city life swept her under. Now healed - and in a place of true happiness - she guides listeners through tales of falling in love, self-acceptance, imperfection, and the beauty of letting go.
The EP opens with the hopelessly romantic duet ‘Scars,’ featuring acclaimed songwriter James TW. From the opening line, “All those little things / that you try to hide,” Elina illustrates a powerful story of learning to love someone - flaws, mistakes, and scars included. In turn, she learns to love herself in the process, crafting a genuine and sentimental portrait of partnership.
Then comes the anthemic ‘Cutting Ties,’ coloured with bold melodies, soaring guitar solos, and acoustic flourishes - offering an updated, subtle take on the emotional energy of Rumours-era Fleetwood Mac. The chorus mirrors the euphoric feeling of finally moving on, and the joy and freedom it brings. It’s an act of letting go of her spiralling thoughts, and a huge puzzle piece in her voyage toward acceptance.
Elina - as a vocalist and lyricist - leads this narrative with a quiet, heartfelt confidence, wrapped in a soothing voice that is as tender as it is wise. With years of songwriting under her belt, she seems to have found her ground; and it shows in the maturity of this offering. Brand-new track ‘Waiting Room’ is a more melancholic, stripped-back reflection on feeling as if she’s been waiting forever for the one she loves: “Life is a wishing well / Until we can be ourselves / In each other’s eyes.”
Closing off the collection is the piano-based wonder ‘Holding Space,’ a wistful goodbye to heartbreak and an embrace of a brave new chapter. As strings float over her soulful, stand-out vocal delivery, we’re left with a strong feeling of contemplation, gratitude, and - most importantly - peace.
Elina has arrived home, and she’s welcoming us to her warm abode with open arms.
Listen
here.
