Nilsa No One’s debut EP, Cracks in the Pavement, is a deeply personal and emotional collection of songs that capture years of growth, struggle, and self-discovery. This project is more than just music—it tells a story of perseverance, learning, and understanding oneself. Over the span of her twenties, Nilsa No One poured her thoughts, feelings, and experiences into this EP, creating a heartfelt journey through themes of change, grief, love, and human connection.
The EP opens with its title track, Cracks in the Pavement, setting a poetic and thoughtful tone. The lyrics, “There were walls, all four, a height you can’t ignore / There were windows, shedding light beyond the doors,” describe feelings of being trapped but still catching glimpses of hope. The idea of cracks in the pavement represents resilience and the possibility of growth even in tough circumstances. Musically, the song has a slow, steady rhythm that enhances its emotional weight. The repeated lines, “If there are cracks in the pavement, maybe the world, it’ll grow back in time,” reflect both sadness and hope, making this an impactful introduction to the EP.
The second track, Lucid Dreams, dives into a strange, dreamlike world where reality and imagination blur together. The lyrics, “I lost myself, only for a second / I was being someone else,” reveal the unsettling feeling of questioning one’s identity. The song’s changing tempo adds to its surreal quality, creating a hypnotic experience for the listener. The line, “Lucid dreams, you see, they’re real to me,” captures the mysterious nature of dreams and how they can feel just as real as waking life. An instrumental break in the middle of the song provides a moment of reflection, drawing listeners deeper into its dreamy atmosphere.
One of the most emotional songs on the EP, There Are Worlds Between Us Now, explores themes of separation and longing. The opening line, “But there are worlds between us now,” immediately captures a feeling of emotional distance, whether in relationships or personal growth. The lyrics paint a picture of love and connection that feel just out of reach, using poetic imagery like “to dive into another moon / Where roses sing, sparrows bloom.” The song’s storytelling makes it one of the most moving and relatable tracks on the EP, as it touches on the deep emotions of missing someone and feeling disconnected.
The fourth track, Eye of the Other, takes a more philosophical approach, focusing on self-awareness and how we see ourselves through the eyes of others. The lyrics, “I’ve been staring at myself too long to see / Living in the shadow of a dream,” reflect a struggle with identity and the desire for meaningful connections. The soft acoustic guitar and light percussion create an intimate and thoughtful atmosphere, pulling the listener into deep contemplation. The repeated question, “And do you love the world that you’ve created?” encourages listeners to think about their own lives and self-perceptions, making this a standout track with its deep meaning and introspective lyrics.
The final song, How Can the Flowers, is short but powerful, lasting just under a minute. Its lyrics, “How is the flower still blooming if you go away? / And how is the ocean still breathing if you cannot stay?” explore the ideas of change, loss, and the cycle of life. The song compares nature’s constant movement to human emotions, questioning how things continue even when someone is no longer present. The soft melody and simple arrangement let the lyrics shine, creating a bittersweet and reflective ending to the EP. The closing line, “I can’t change the season; guess I’m just meant to wait,” perfectly wraps up the themes of acceptance and patience in the face of uncertainty.
Cracks in the Pavement is a stunning introduction to Nilsa No One’s music, showcasing her ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with simple yet powerful instrumentals. Each song brings a unique perspective on self-discovery, relationships, and emotions, making the EP not just an expression of her personal journey but also something that listeners can connect with on a deep level. This debut marks Nilsa No One as a rising star in the indie music scene, and Cracks in the Pavement is proof of her talent, honesty, and potential to leave a lasting impact on listeners.
English