Nicole McKinney emotionally drives us through 'The Process' on her debut EP

Brisbane-based artist Nicole McKinney has been building to the release of her debut EP, ‘The Process’ since the beginning of 2021, and she has delivered with this emotionally-charged indie/folk release, out now.

Pouring the remnants of a broken heart onto reverbed guitar, McKinney digs deep into her soul and brings out tender, at times soaring vocals, backed by a solid rhythm section that sits in the pocket, with some added textures to bring some slight atmosphere.

Transforming open, emotional wounds into songs swimming in indie magic, there are times when McKinney lets her guard down, particularly with the last track, ‘Takotsubo’, where she lets some Aussie vocalisms sneak in, adding to some much appreciated authenticity. The adjustment of the guitar’s volume knob at the beginning of ‘Takotsubo’ is a chef’s kiss on a strong track, even before the song can be digested.

The whole EP delves into the complexities of processing pain, grief and anger. McKinney speaks more on the inspiration behind ‘The Process’:

“I hope this EP can comfort a broken heart, inspire someone to leave toxic friends or partners and most of all, ensure patience with our own healing process.”

The tracks journal McKinney’s emotional voyage, from losing a loved one and friendship group, the coming to terms of a break-up, and the final confrontation with an ex-partner, sending out questions that may never receive an answer.

With a lot of support and praise from music media, major radio and peers in the lead up to the release of this EP, now is your turn to take in ‘The Process’ and see what the fuss is all about. The pay off, particularly if you are moving through troubled times is worth it.