Nieve Ella leaves the heavier emotions of her forthcoming debut album How Long Will It Take? behind for a moment on ‘Romance Is A Desert’. Written as its lighter counterpart, the track gives itself over to desire and the simple pleasure of being completely swept up in a feeling.
Dreamy synths and a gently driving rhythm give ‘Romance Is A Desert’ an easy, swaying quality, with warmth running through its breezy indie sound. There’s no huge burst of energy needed; instead, the track settles comfortably into its groove while Nieve’s effortlessly cool vocal brings plenty of sensuality and sass. Despite the suggestion of uncertainty lurking beneath the surface, little of that tension comes through musically. This feels much more like surrendering to the moment and enjoying it while it lasts.
The video couldn’t suit that feeling better. Nieve dances alone in slow motion against a brilliantly blue sky, sunglasses firmly in place as she moves through a sun-drenched field with suitably carefree confidence. Simple and understated, it captures the song’s warmth without overcomplicating things. ‘Romance Is A Desert’ feels like a long summer day slowly slipping into evening – breezy, flirtatious and perfectly content to enjoy itself.
