Unwrapped: Isabelle Perfall – Atmosphere

We had a chat with exciting new artist Isabelle Perfall following the release of her excellent debut EP Atmosphere

With the release of her stunning debut EP Atmosphere, New York City indie-folk artist Isabelle Perfall has shot herself into contention as one of 2024’s most exciting and promising new artists, showcasing a deft and emotionally rich sound that is packed full of charm and affable sensibilities that creep out from every corner of the sound.

The track’s on the EP are packed full of personable, relatable lyrics, soft, gorgeously textured vocals, and the kind of stripped-back instrumentation that feels warm and inviting while allowing the vocals and lyrics to take centre stage and highlight the artist’s immense talents. Throughout the three tracks, the artist shows more heart and earnest appeal than some artists do in a lifetime, with her relatable narratives of reconnecting with a lost love through these uplifting and moving tracks that are packed full of vibrancy and life. We adore this new release, and had a chat with Isabelle to find out a bit more about it and how it came together.

Hey! We love your new debut EP Atmosphere, what more can you tell us about it?

Atmosphere is special to me because it represents my journey of discovering my sound and musical identity all infused into three tracks. Each song has its core theme but is meant to work beautifully alongside the others and, together, remind the listener of the many facets of childhood. I wrote these songs based on my experiences and with as much authenticity as possible, but I hope that each listener brings their own unique stories to these songs and makes them their own.

What was the process like putting it together?

I like to write when I have a clear head and can focus on the process, but usually that is not when inspiration strikes, so I end up writing whenever I feel called to. I wrote these three songs with a clear idea of what they are about in my head, always feeling guided by a moment, experience, person, or emotion. The beauty of songwriting, for me, is that it can happen anytime, anywhere, and will always serve as an outlet for me in times of need.

What were your biggest influences when creating the EP?

I was influenced by the incredible artists I grew up listening to – Aretha Franklin, Carole King, Earth Wind & Fire – but was also greatly influenced by my classical background in music. Having been classically trained means that I developed a deep appreciation for the history of music and the artists who care for that history as well. I try to make my music reflective of my classical background with an acoustic sound and a strong care for the composition and theory of each piece.

How much of an impact does your home of New York City have on your writing?

I was greatly influenced by the incredible city of New York when working on this project. I am blessed to live alongside such a rich art and music scene, and anytime I have the chance to witness that art firsthand, I feel inspired and motivated to create my own. Living in New York means that experiencing the arts all around you is almost unavoidable and I love that about this city. In New York, there is always an audience and always an innovative, inspiring art form to witness. From world-renowned musical theatre to lively jazz to the street performers in Central Park, I have been lucky enough to embrace music all around me in this city and it has molded me into the artist I am today.

What else do you have planned for the near future?

In the future, I hope to write more and more and continue to work hard on my compositions. I would love to release a full album next year, to complement this EP, and will be sure to explore more genres and themes in my music. I have felt so inspired by this release and look forward to having the chance to do it again very soon!