Babehoven – Ella’s From Somewhere Else

In a scene saturated with attempts to redefine genres, Babehoven’s “Ella’s From Somewhere Else” brings us back to the roots with a beautifully unadorned folk song that doubles as a homage to Squirrel Flower. The New York duo, consisting of Maya Bon and her musical counterpart, strikes a balance between the distinct essence of alt-folk and the simplicity of traditional folk narratives. This six-minute piece is primarily driven by Bon’s captivating vocals, proving that sometimes, less really is more. The song doesn’t rely on dramatic shifts or complex instrumentations to keep the listener engaged; instead, it’s the raw emotional depth and the poignant story behind the music that maintains its allure.

“Ella’s From Somewhere Else” emerges as a standout track not just for its musicality but for the personal connection Maya Bon shares with the namesake inspirations behind the song: Ella O’Connor Williams of Squirrel Flower and her childhood dog Ella. Bon’s ability to intertwine these influences into a single, soulful narrative showcases her adept songwriting and the unique space Babehoven occupies in today’s music landscape. It’s this heartfelt blend of the personal and the musical that makes “Ella’s From Somewhere Else” a contender for the year’s most resonant song, inviting listeners into Bon’s reflective space illuminated by candlelight and memories.