KiKi Holli finds strength in the intoxicating soulfulness of "Play To Lose"

Los Angeles artist KiKi Holli has shared a new single with the release of the relentlessly soulful “Play To Lose.” As the second release this year from the indie-pop vocalist, the track shines a radiant light on the kind of euphoniously-groovy energy that permeates her songs. But the track also illustrates Holli’s need to make music that is both vulnerable and nurturing — on “Play To Lose,” she finds newfound confidence in herself amidst the wreckage of a toxic relationship.

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Delivered via her honey-dipped vocals and the song’s gilded instrumentals, “Play To Lose” likens the game of love to a failing game of cards. “This is the deal I call your bluff,” she cries out over deliriously sublime tambourine shakes and her own echoed coos. In the end, the song’s riveting sonics lead to something triumphant and hopeful — the emancipation from someone who just isn’t good for you. And there’s no better way to communicate that powerful sentiment than through the vintage, soulful pop euphoria of Holli’s creation.

“Play To Lose” is just the second single Holli has released this year, following her breakout original debut with “New High.” Before that, she made headlines with her superb Roxy Music cover of “More Than This.” With inspirations that include Prince, Dusty Springfield, The Cure, Stevie Nicks, and Siouxsie and the Banshees, Holli has found a niche in creating melodically invigorating pop that really feels like a continuation of the 80s.