Out of all the discoveries made over the past few years, there are a few that really standout. Youtube and its algorithm is a mysterious thing. Yet, one day it showed me the music video for Canadian singer Begonia (real name Alexa Dirks) for ‘Hotter Than the Sun’. What followed was a riotous few minutes featuring puppets, the patter of keyboard typing, public service cinematography, glowing lights and retro CGI effects. The song was funny and singable, with fluffed up melodies. This was my introduction to Begonia.

Seeking more I discovered a more recent album: Fantasy Life, related with Canadian label Birthday Cake. There is a candidness to these songs, unafraid to truly open up. What pains me is Begonia does not have a much bigger following. I’d die to hear her sing with Brits darling Raye or the opera inspired Rosalía. We hear her talk about getting high, working on songwriting, the modest quest for acclaim and nostalgic flights that might prove unbearable for some listeners. It is the accessibleness to her voice and of course, the openness that really rings. 

Whilst ‘Hotter Than the Sun’ is a stand out, several other songs also are noteworthy. ‘Deep Cherry Night Funk’ (the music video also features more puppets) is one for a late night club or as the video would suggest, a long drive to nowhere. Out of my control is much more sombre in tone, with soft piano chords and touching maternal instincts. ‘PLB’ follows with dance like vibes and more curt directness over fallouts and letting go. ‘In My Lifetime Part 2’ starts of in a more garage style leading to words of dissociation. The opener and first part of ‘In My Lifetime’ has brief droplet keys and warm poetry in its wistful yearning. ‘So High’ is an other gateway song, it’s funk is stellar and its easy going aura is a balm. Others are also very listenable and this discovery for me still holds up. 

With her European tour now in the UK and Ireland, now is the time to meet Begonia.   

Order ‘Fantasy Life’ CD or vinyl now from Birthday Cake, or download from Bandcamp.