Words by Willa Rudolph
Following a mesmerizing performance at Night Club 101 earlier this month, Bella Litsa’s singles–teasing her upcoming LP Drasticism (February 20 via Records, Man, Records)–are creating ripples in the water.
The Brooklyn-based Greek-American singer-songwriter channels the spirit of artists like Weyes Blood, Caroline Polachek, Angel Olsen, and Fiona Apple, wielding her sound like a sword with moody, cinematic dark-pop that’s sharp and captivating. Born Isabella Komodromos, Bella Litsa fuses nostalgic and futuristic sonic textures, crafting music that absorbs your attention and doesn’t let it go.
Her most recent single, “Passion Plug,” opens with pulsing synths that mimic the cadence of piano keys. Her soft and velvety vocals come in as she dances across a dimly lit ballet studio–flirting with the mirror and performing sultry, jazzy moves while singing about an uncertain relationship that leaves her both exhilarated and on the edge. She feels alive but there’s no safety.
Accompanied by two male dancers, she whispers the second verse as the beat grows and the tension builds. Finally, her voice breaks through, raw and unguarded: “Make it stop, make it stop…” She layers arpeggios, croons, and belts in the background, marrying her sound and her emotions into something hypnotic.
“Passion Plug” follows her previous videos and singles, “1117” and “Never Ending Movie.” She’s theatrical, yet raw in her lush and commanding songs. Keep up with her here!
