Based in Berlin AE are Indonesian vocalist and producer Akila, and half-Bolivian, half-Danish vocalist and instrumentalist Elias. ‘Water Drape’ is trap mixed with indie pop/rock. Their sound has notes of a fusion of XX and Lykke Li. A perfectly produced soundscape with shades of darkness to ground it and herein lies the appeal. They say their music explores struggles around sexuality, gender and post-colonialism which are very real issues in both their lives. Like Loud Women, AE hope to create a safe space for everyone, but especially anyone who is marginalised and can relate to themes of womanhood, queerness, and being foreign. ‘Water Drape’ is an earworm to boot so go listen!
By Julie Riley
I am formerly of 90s cult band Rosa Mota (and since then 1 half of Crown Estate) and now have my own band, I am HER. I also run the Loud Women on Sea shows at the Piper, St Leonards (Hastings) and sometimes write for Loud Women too.