The 2020-2021 lockdowns were a difficult period for many. For Austin-based singer-songwriter Lani Thomison (also known as Street Peach), the time spent away from work presented her with an opportunity to reflect, write songs, and ultimately re-establish her love for music. Her solo debut EP, Monarch, was born out of those writing sessions.

The EP comes from a place of self-reflection, with songs that embody a moody, introspective celebration of growth. The title ‘Monarch‘ was inspired by the migratory monarch butterfly. In the artist’s words, “It’s kind of a nod to different life experiences, and migrating through them. It’s about hope, growth, reclamation of power, falling in love, falling out of it, while holding onto myself. It’s about finding yourself in a place of deep love and gratitude for yourself.”

Street Peach started out as a member of Austin-based trio, Keeper. This new project, thus, meant that she was writing mostly solo. However, she found a perfect creative partner in Willie Green, who ended up producing the entire 7-song EP. Lani would create acapella demos, then send them to Green to build a track around. This was a unique experience for the producer, who was accustomed to creating tracks and sending to artists to record.

The first track, “Breath and Exposure”, is also the first song which the pair recorded. Sonically, it set the tone for the EP. Lo-fi beats and ethereal melodies characterize the captivating mini-album. “Caroline” and “Heavy” are two standout tracks (watch the singer perform them above).

I’d say Monarch clearly and compellingly captures Lani’s creative vision, innovatively combining elements of bedroom-pop and alt-R&B. Each track is a chapter in a relatable story, a journey marked by wins, setbacks and growth.

Street Peach remarks: “This release feels like coming back to myself. Music has always been my way of understanding the world, and with Monarch, I’m sharing that journey with others. I hope it touches those who are in their own process of transformation and healing.”

Connect with Street Peach on Instagram.

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