When it comes to a debut release, it can be said that the projects you choose to release is a crucial one as it can set the tone for the future of your career. No one knows this better than breakout star Zoe Wees. Having only released a handful of songs, the 19-year-old star has already found herself gracing the stages of The Late Late Show with James Corden and Jimmy Kimmel Live!. And, with over half a billion streams under her belt, as well as being deemed “one to watch” by Billboard, it is clear that her work has resonated strongly with her rapidly growing fan base.

While her accolades have already taken her further than some musicians manage to go in a lifetime, the rising star is showing no signs of slowing down as she unveils her debut EP “Golden Wings”. Dubbed as an “autobiographical” collection of tunes by the singer herself, we are taken on a journey of introspection and emotion, all the while enjoying the unmatched musical talent that lies at the heart of Wees’ vocals.

Take a look below as we break down “Golden Wings” track by track…

For the EP’s first display, soft piano keys twinkle as the tone of the Wees’ offering is set. Harking on the singer’s childhood scars, which were brought on by her battle with benign rolandic epilepsy, pain-drenched vocals belt out introspective lyrics which touch on the subject of losing control and the fear of the past repeating itself. With “Control” not only acting as the opening track from the EP but also as the star’s debut single, it can be said that it stands as a shining embodiment of Wees’ ethos and raw talent.

Speaking to a generation of women, Wees’ “Girls Like Us” is an empowerment anthem worthy of the name. Offering comforting words and reassurance in a time of uncertainty, the singer explores the deep insecurities that we all feel regularly in a raw and pioneering manner. A thumping beat marches the song forward providing an uplifting tone despite the deeply vulnerable lyrics. And, considering the current climate we find ourselves in, it can safely be said that this song is not only welcomed but truly necessary.

With the official music video for the track “Hold Me Like You Used To” offering a touching dedication to Wees’ great grandmother as it commences, the song oozes heart-wrenching emotions from the getgo.

“This is a song about losing someone you really love and feel close to. It’s dedicated to my great-grandmother, who sadly passed away. She was such a strong woman and the funniest person I knew, and I can still feel her great energy. She is my inspiration and I know she is still here,” explains the singer.

Accompanying the heart-felt lyrics is a display of musical triumph as a pensive and stripped-back piano tune acts as a foundation for Wees’ powerhouse vocals, which take centre stage.

When it comes to the track “Ghost”, we are offered a change in musicality. While the muted acoustic introduction typical of her work commences, the chorus brings in a crashing wave of heavy production that runs underneath the singer’s elegantly gruff vocals. Offering a juxtaposing mix of harsh and soft segments, the song is a true rollercoaster of sounds that highlights Wees’ sheer range of ability.

Rounding off the EP is “Overthinking”. Leaving us on a note of optimism, a rippling guitar beat introduces the faster-paced offering in the name of diversity in sound. With the message of the song steeped in an attempt to reject invasive thoughts that plague Wees’ mind, the track is defiant and willful in nature which balances out some of the deeply emotional tracks that come before it, rounding off the EP as a whole.