There’s something beautifully unhurried about Lady Shol, the debut EP by Liverpool-based artist Niki Kand. From the first listen, it feels like sitting in a quiet room filled with sunlight, where time slows down just enough for you to breathe. The name itself, taken from a Persian slang term meaning someone who takes their time, already sets the tone. Niki isn’t in a rush here; she’s unfolding her story at her own pace, and that’s part of the charm.
The EP drifts between alternative indie and lo-fi dream-pop, with a touch of jazz that sneaks in so naturally it almost feels like a live session in a dimly lit studio. You can sense the honesty in her production choices—the textures are warm, the instruments feel alive, and you get the sense that every sound was placed exactly where it needed to be. Working with Liverpool producer Tom Anderson, Niki built something that sounds both intimate and expansive, like she’s inviting you into her world but still leaving enough mystery to keep you listening.
Her song Figure It Out stands out right away. It starts off melancholic, almost hesitant, but slowly blossoms into something hopeful. The trumpet comes in like a soft burst of light, and by the time the chorus hits, you can’t help but smile a little. It’s that kind of song that reminds you things eventually make sense, even if you’re still figuring them out. The way she weaves calm energy with a subtle drive is addictive; you can tell she’s found her sound, and she’s sitting comfortably in it.
What ties the EP together is the idea of transformation. You can hear her saying goodbye to an older version of herself, but not in a sad way—more like she’s acknowledging the person she used to be and moving forward with grace. Every track feels like a letter to her younger self, that “Lady Shol” who took her time and didn’t always fit the mold. And maybe that’s why this project feels so personal; it’s a reflection of growth without losing tenderness.
Lady Shol isn’t trying to impress you; it’s inviting you to slow down and listen closely. It’s dreamy, reflective, and quietly powerful, the kind of music that lingers in your mind long after it ends. If you haven’t already, follow Niki Kand on Spotify and social media to keep up with what she does next, because this is only the beginning.
