This year has been a tumultuous one due to the catastrophic effects of the ongoing pandemic. Particularly with the enforced global lockdown that makes an already complicated world even more complex. Now it’s December (the supposedly joyous season) to reflect on the year and celebrate our achievements. However, this December is a whirlwind of emotions that The Ella Sisters have captured accurately with their new single Drunk On December.
Their gentle vocals tell a narrative about not feeling that happy during this particular festive period “I’m sorry mum, not bringing anything home this year. And I didn’t call cos I was lonely and filled with fear.” The instruments and feel of the song evokes the nostalgia of Christmas and how we are all feeling during a time which is bound to be different from all those before. It also reflects on how everyone looks like they are having a wonderful time but you are sad inside and longing to feel what they are feeling, “Cos everyone seems to be drunk on December, love all around and the lights inside.“
Drunk on December features a spacey aesthetic with stunning harmonies and gentle instrumentals. Sweet melodies and vocals elicit the feeling of Christmas but there is a melancholy tone to the song.
Twins Maren and Charlotte are The Ella Sisters who grew up along the southern coast of Norway, and the beautiful landscape inspires them in their songwriting which draws influences from various genres. At its heart their music is honest and pure; they write about what it’s like to be young and navigating through life while touching on themes such a mental health.
“We wrote lots of music while social distancing and we wanted to share a nostalgic and longing Christmas tune, not put in the calendar until autumn hit. This is us and we guess pretty much everyone else, looking back on a challenging year. The song is minimalistic and raw and gives an honest depiction of the young heart not able to rest or fit in.” The Ella Sisters
Drunk on December will be featured on the duo’s Sophomore EP Sugarcoat which is set for release in 2021.