More and more artists are, refreshingly, becoming more and more honest with and through their music. Olivia Rodrigo is perhaps the most current ‘big-name’ example, and her ability to be open about personal issues, and more widespread, mainstream ones is something that has seen her earn a HUGE fanbase around the world.

Up-and-coming artist Monica Aben is one artist looking to perhaps follow in her footsteps; her new EP Postcards is full of songs about self-reflection, life, love and everything in between.

Like many in the entertainment world, Aben found herself at a crossroads of sorts when the pandemic hit almost two years ago. However, rather than letting the uncertainty of what lay ahead daunt her, she set about discovering who she was both as a person and an artist – the questions about and answers to which are presented through each track on the collection.

The EP solidifies her standing as someone wanting to express any and everything she wants and has to say through her music; as it is for millions around the world; it seems music is very much a form of therapy for Aben, one which she uses to connect with fans on a personal, more intimate level.

Opening track “CPH” focuses on the idea and experience of letting go of things that, in some way, shape or form, no longer benefit or are good for you, and moving on to better and bigger things; after the rough times we’ve all gone through lately, it’s a rather poignant, powerful track.

While there are several strong songs on the collection, “Reasons to Reminisce” is perhaps the strongest of them all. A story about rediscovering old text messages that leave you thinking back to that time in your life and perhaps reimagining what went on, it’s both charming, fun and lyrically accurate.

“I promised I wouldn’t look back that far, but memories are inviting,” sings Aben – and she’s not wrong. I think it’s safe to say that we have all felt the lure of a memory pull us back to an earlier time, either good or bad, and leave us going: “What if?” or “What was I thinking?” “Last Local In Venice” is the most reflective track on the EP, and as a closing number, if anything it might be a little too sombre for some, however it’s a great showcase of Aben’s song-writing talent.

Give Postcards a listen below and for more information on Monica Aben, visit her website, give her page a like on Facebook or follow her on Twitter and Instagram. Header photo credit: Brenna Weeks.