‘Lipstick’ was recorded live, in one take, alongside a carefully curated session band, giving authenticity to reference points from the Great American Songbook era.
The music is peppered with electronic atmospheres throughout, delivering a contemporary edge to these iconic sounds from the 60s. Jaunty piano chords contrast against an unusually dense and orchestral aesthetic. The sound signifies the push, pull scenario described by Alfreda’s honeyed vocal, as she battles with whether she needs romantic love to be happy – or whether it’s the patriarchy’s outdated pressure on women which makes them feel this way.
Alfreda said about Lipstick “Old Hollywood musicals like Singin’ in the Rain inspired this song. One song in particular was Dean Martin’s version of You’re Nobody Till Somebody Loves You, released in 1960. I was drawn to the glamorous old Hollywood tone. The women’s goal in these movies tends to be love and finding their home in another man. This song is written from the perspective of someone who grew up wholeheartedly believing these ideals, and then starts to question them.”
The new Alfreda embodies both old-school Hollywood glamour and the seductive futurism of synth-pop. Her sound, visuals, and performances, build an entire universe presenting an alluring fusion of vintage swing with the complex atmosphere of a David Lynch film.
Performances inspired by the burlesque scene also play a big part in Alfreda’s creativity. The artist holds down a cabaret-inspired residency at overhauled London music hub and now members club House of KOKO. The night is called ‘Bedroom Tales’ and will next be held on Valentine’s Day.
To promote the hotly anticipated debut EP, she is soon embarking on a ‘Bedroom Tour’, which will see Alfreda perform her songs in various, different people’s bedrooms across England. Just a week before Glastonbury in 2023, Alfreda was invited to play at the festival by burlesque icon Evelyn Carnate.
Alfreda will have a three-page editorial shoot and interview in the April issue of Tatler, where she will be discussing her music, cabaret, influences and her exciting visual world.