Full Review

Elina, Paper Planes Review

Elina (Elina Stridh) is a Swedish singer and songwriter that is known for her well-crafted lyrics that tell a story. Elina focuses on writing songs that tell delicate stories of the vulnerabilities and uncertainties that make us brazenly human – superbly flawed and courageously resilient. She finds inspiration in her lyric craft in the strong history and tradition of Swedish songwriters (Björn and Benny [ABBA], Max Martin, Cheiron, et al.). Elina’s songs have received multiple awards, including the 2018 ASCAP Pop Award, Best Contemporary Song nomination in the Ivor Novello Awards, and a Denniz Pop Award nomination. She was also honored with the Swedish Publishing Awards’ ‘Song of the Year’ for “Sexual” by NEIKED (which she co-wrote). Elina is now transitioning from songwriting to being an artist and fronting her projects. The process is a vulnerable, yet ultimately, an enlightening path. Elina explains, “I had written a few songs I really loved but hadn’t been picked up by any artist, so I decided to release them myself. Creating this artist’ persona’ and everything is still very alien, but making music on my own terms has been such a healing experience.” Elina is now releasing “Paper Planes,” which is her first single of 2020. Coming off the success of 2019 when her songs have garnered 100MM+ Spotify streams and counting. In May 2019, Elina released her debut EP,In Hindsight.

Positives A strong storyline leads us through a solid song form with Elina’s beautiful singing.

Bottom Line: “Paper Planes” is a building pop tune that is centered on Elina’s warm voice and beautiful lyrics. The lyrics tell a relatable story about finding resilience and hope in the throes of grief. Elina describes the track, “At the time, two people in my life that I love dearly and care about very deeply had recently decided to walk their separate ways after a long, long time. I feel I subconsciously steered the lyrics in the direction of their story. I admire and respect their strength in wanting the best for each other and being supportive, selfless and strong throughout it all. This song to me is about that kind of strength. The ability to help each other pursue happiness, even if that means you can’t be together.” Orchestrated with acoustic piano, light string sounds and quiet acoustic guitar, Elina starts the journey. The melody is memorable, and she shows a diverse range and vocal color between the verse and chorus. Elina’s move to the spotlight is fitting, she is a wonderful songwriter and has a voice to match. Expect great things; that’s the short of it!