Toronto-based indie artist Lia Pappas-Kemps has dropped her latest single, “Reservations,” a whirlwind of emotionally charged indie pop that’s as infectious as it is raw. With a voice that is reminiscent of the grittiness of Alanis Morissette, Kemps delivers a standout performance that feels both nostalgic and new at the same time.
Built around themes of desire, denial, and being blissfully unaware in toxic relationships, “Reservations” cuts deep and continues to pour into the wound. Kemps’ raspy, almost cry-like vocal delivery injects the track with aching intensity, while also creating a connection between the listener and the singer, pulling deep at heartstrings. It’s heartbreak, lust, and regret wrapped into an addicting melody that refuses to leave your head.
The accompanying music video elevates the song’s emotional weight even further. It opens with a jarring scene – Kemps lying in the middle of the street, as if freshly struck by a car. Rather than flee or panic, she calmly walks home. When she arrives home, she’s joined by a mime as she blankly stares into a mirror, a metaphorical moment that perfectly accompanies the lyric: “I held no reservations / I saw no bad in you.” The visual storytelling matches the song’s emotional complexity, portraying the detachment from the red flags we so often choose to ignore.
“Reservations” was a group effort, featuring Dylan Burchell on guitar, Julian Psihogios on drums, Melissa Paju on bass, and Lia herself on vocals and guitar. Recorded at Taurus Studios, the track was produced by Elia Pappas, engineered by Thomas D’Arcy, mixed by Howie Beck, and mastered by Kristian Montano.
Released via Coalition Music Records, “Reservations” is now available on all major streaming platforms. It’s a bold, emotionally resonant release that firmly positions Lia Pappas-Kemps as an indie act to watch.
Written by Melissa Cusano
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