Lydia Baylis

The wave of female talent that Britain has produced in the last few years can sometimes be somewhat overwhelming - or worryingly for the music industry, saturation. For every Amy Winehouse, Adele or Paloma Faith there are many far less talented (step forward Diana Vickers, Eliza Doolittle, Gabrielle Aplin to name just three). A lot depends on the right look and sound at the right time, and perhaps the stunning Lydia Baylis has got that timing right.

Ahead of an album in early 2014, this is her debut single. A mean and moody slice of pop, Mirrors is a reflection (excuse the pun) on an apparent platonic relationship, according to Baylis, although the darker overtones suggest something a little more sinister. Whatever the inspiration or meaning, Baylis has deliberately gone for a cinematic sound, giving her freedom to express herself musically and lyrically. Pop can be sometimes limiting.

One of the tracks featured on an EP to promote the single is a cover of Black's Wonderful Life and the contradiction between the brighter melody and darker lyrics is something that Baylis is keen to explore. While not in the same league as that classic song, Mirrors is nevertheless an impressive start.