The mesmeric world of dream pop has a new entrancing tune in its midst. Yndling, Norwegian singer-songwriter Silje Espevik’s evocative musical project, gifts us “Make Me Want You,” an ode to the paradoxes of budding romance. With sonic textures reminiscent of dream pop’s stalwarts—Beach House, Cocteau Twins, and Men I Trust—this track enfolds listeners in a cocoon of layered guitars, ethereal synths, and Espevik’s haunting vocals.
The song is a poignant reflection on the vulnerability of desire, the risk of emotional exposure, and the often innate human tendency to shield oneself from prospective heartache. Lyrics like “change, if you want, I don’t care” and “leave, if you want, I won’t judge” resonate the struggle of trying to maintain emotional equanimity in love’s uncertain landscape. The repeated line “I could taste the ghost right off your breath should know I had no chance” conjures the phantoms of past relationships that lurk, making new commitments seem daunting. This deliberate downplaying of feelings, as articulated by Yndling, becomes a protective mechanism—loving at arm’s length lest the heart is broken. The lyrical depths of “Make Me Want You” are as intricate as its soundscape—interweaving vulnerability with an almost defiant acceptance of possible heartbreak.
While the track may not have found its way into the final tracklist of Yndling’s anticipated debut album, its beauty cannot be understated. It stands as a testament to her prowess both as a lyricist and a composer. With a rapidly growing reputation both in Norway’s bustling music scene and on the international stage, and commendations from the likes of NRK P3, The Line of Best Fit, and Rolling Stone India, it’s clear Yndling is poised to continue leaving an indelible mark in the world of music. Her artistry blends the introspection of her lyrics with the expansive, atmospheric nature of her melodies, crafting songs that, much like “Make Me Want You,” linger long after the final note.