MUSIC REVIEW: KATERINA NICOLE – Serene In Violent Oceans [EP]

Label: Independent

Release Date: February 21, 2025

Rating: 89%

Reviewer: Todd “Toddstar” Jolicoeur

With her debut EP, Serene In Violent Oceans, Katerina Nicole introduces you to the different facets of her voice and emotions… and it’s damn good stuff.  Disc opener and lead single “Catch My Breath” unfolds and we are faced with a musical onslaught that peels pack and allows Katerine to drape her lush vocals over the mix as the pre-chorus hits.  Her voice is strong without being overpowering, allowing the music to carry her voice in whatever emotionally charged direction she intends, especially on this lead track.  “House of Cards” is an equally strong song and also that only track not previously released as a single.  The heavier groove of the track gives her room to run and deliver a slightly different texture than the previous track without giving up any of the strength.  The undertones in her voice on the verse are almost monotone, but it adds punch to the overall vibe of the song.  “Emotionally” has a different fell and cadence that stands out when Katerina opens the track and runs through the verse with very stripped back accompaniment.  The song’s structure and musical component have a more mainstream feel that makes this an accessible track.  The drumming and layered background vocals add depth to the track through the choruses and bridge.  “Darkling” is a sonic amalgamation of the other tracks highlighting all that is good throughout the EP and pulling the parts together.  The overall ebb and flow of energy on the track, especially on the transitions from verse to chorus and back again allows this one to blend in among the other tracks without removing the standalone quality in the songs DNA.  Disc closer “What I Know Now” has a different feel woven into the tracks musical tapestry.  The vocals seem twisted and slightly altered through the verse, allowing us to hear the strong voice we have come to enjoy across the other tracks, as well as some really heavy music in the parting moments of the short disc.  Here’s hoping we get a tour of sorts to see how well these songs translate to a live situation.

Tracklisting: Catch My Breath – House of Cards – Emotionally – Darkling – What I Know Now

KATERINA NICOLE LINKS:

OFFICIAL SITE

INSTAGRAM

APPLE MUSIC

Category: CD Reviews