PAO PESTANA - 'NMIGO'.. BIG INDIE RECORDS
“Sultry vocals atop intense electric soundscapes” - Earmilk
“Fresh, spacious and wildly original” - BBC 6 Introducing
Perfectly aligning with International Women’s Day, Venezuelan London-based multi-hyphenate Pao Pestana has just revealed ‘NMIGO’, her high-energy new single out today via Big Indie Records. Alongside the single release, Pao also announces the release date for her debut EP No Apagues La Luna, due out 12th April.
No Apagues La Luna is a phrase that Pao used to say at 3 years old to her father when he went to turn her light off before bed: “don’t turn off the moon”. It’s that age of discovery where children play around with the meaning of words, exploring and creating the world around them in ways that spark intrigue. Through the EP, Pao is reconnecting to her inner child, letting herself be playful and free, tapping into that same curiosity that she explored as a child. Created with no expectations and no pressure, Pao illuminates her identity and true being on No Apagues La Luna.
‘NMIGO’ (a play on the Spanish word ‘enemigo’ meaning ‘enemy’) was written as an ode to the power of women and their determination to overcome any hurdles or doubt that comes their way. It was made on the same day as a business situation with a man that led to Pao being deceived. The result is a cathartic release of energy that is simultaneously empowering, motivating and exciting. It’s a strong example of how art and creativity can flourish in the face of adversity, as Pao left the session with her producer “feeling like Superwoman.”
The record introduces itself with ominous bass-led synth pulses and an overpowering Latin percussive rhythm underpinned by Pao Pestana’s haunting vocal, which quickly fills out with thick basslines. The track builds tension throughout, before climaxing with thundering drums and a layered chorus rich with expressive backing vocals. Not only is the track a perfect cocktail of Western and Latin production styles, Pao Pestana continuously switches between Spanish and English throughout the song, once again highlighting both her Venezuelan roots and her London-based style.
Speaking on the single, Pao shares, “It’s a badass ‘don’t f*ck with me’ song. Sometimes we need that energy, especially women. I had this as a clear intention when writing NMIGO. I envisioned all the incredible women in my life that I admire, and how hard they work on developing their talents and the knowledge they hold. We continuously get underestimated by some man which becomes fuel for us. I want this song to be a companion to the powerful women that are following their call no matter the adversities. We are powerful.”
The release of ‘NMIGO’ follows Pao’s alluring February release ‘San Menace’ which was accompanied by a slick visual that was creative directed by Pao herself, and directed by Anna Francesca-Jennings.
Consistently shifting perceptions of Latinx pop music, Pao Pestana’s innate curiosity and hunger for experimentation allows her sound to mutate into something truly unique, pulling inspiration from her new home in London as well as her birthplace in Venezuela. Her career so far has already been littered with highlights, including two sold out shows in 2021, as well as performances in major London venues including Jazz Café & Rich Mix London. With support from key tastemakers such as Rinse FM, Earmilk and BBC Introducing, she has an extremely exciting 2023 ahead, with many more genre-bending hits to follow.
Hailing from a family of artists, Pao Pestana fell in love with theatre at an early age, exploring acting and dance as a way to indulge her creativity. Growing up in a home filled with music, she gravitated towards singing, later learning to bring her visions to life with production. With a hunger for opportunities and collaboration, she moved to the city of London, immersing herself in its diverse musical landscape, and shining a light on the flourishing Latinx scene.
‘NMIGO’ is another captivating taster of Pao Pestana; an innovative and rule-defying exploration of the Latin & Western music scene who is gearing towards her debut EP No Apagues La Luna.
This track is very original, and electrifying. Right out the gate I was dancing in my seat. Pao Pestana has a inviting voice that keep you interested even though the track is mostly in Spanish. The track starts off with this incredible bass synth, that I found to be outstanding along with background vocals and percussion. Then the track pauses for about a second. After the pause Pao Pestana vocals comes in, in Spanish in a Reggaetón fashion. At the break Pao sings, 'I Can Be Sweet, Can Also Eat You For Din-nah..'. This Track is just incredible the tribal feel of the Reggaetón with drums pounding just gets you moving in your seat. If you like to dance well, this track is for you. I personally loved it! I loved the fact that even though she is singing in Spanish there is English mix in the track. You pretty much understand what she is singing about. Give this track a listen too readers. You'll be dancing in your seat also.
Photo Credit: Karolina Wielocha
Review by: SchizoFranic
Link: https://linktr.ee/SchizoFranic
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