Kaia Fincher has had a life-long fascination with music, from listening to jazz records to writing from early childhood to examining the finer points of a song’s emotional architecture. Her perspective is not just a unique one, but it’s deeply entwined with who she is. Since making her debut last year with ‘something new’, she’s been steadily amassing fans in her hometown Brighton, the nearby capital city and across the UK. Her latest release ‘TYLO’ (Turn Your Light On) is another fine-tuned cut that brings together a pop sensibility with atmospheric electronica and subtle dance beats. Beyond its mesmerising impression, this track enables Kaia to relate her experience of being queer, in particular regarding the courage it takes to be fully seen.

From the beginning, ‘TYLO’ is such an immersive listen, wrapping listeners up in delicate layers of hypnotic synths, tempo-tracking bass and expressive guitar notes. Throughout, Kaia’s voice moves from ethereal, fae-like tones to a fuller-bodied presence, which conveys reassurance to anyone struggling with their identity. The summery beats and catchy hooks also emphasises this encouragement, as it’s not about the battle, it’s about the joy that comes from stepping out the other side. No doubt, ‘TYLO’ will resonate with the queer community, but it can also touch anyone who needs support in turning their light on.

“This song is a beam of light for anyone who needs it. For queer people still finding their way out. For people struggling with things they haven’t yet named. The line ‘I don’t want to play without you’ came from somewhere very real — from that inner child in all of us who just wants to feel safe enough to be fully themselves. I wanted to make something that says: I see you, and I’m not going anywhere.”

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