Emerging British-Nigerian artist Essence Martins announces her debut EP “Deer In The Headlights” released 23rd February, and shares her new single “Wandering Souls”. Drawing inspiration from a fusion of indie, folk, pop and soul, Essence’s sound is uniquely her own.

“Wandering souls is about curiosity. It is a small window into my mind. I often wonder what happens to us when we complete our journey on earth,” Essence explains. “To me, wandering souls feels like a child who has an endless curiosity about the ways of the world. It has all these questions that no one can really answer.”

“Wandering Souls” follows previous tracks "Pending Status" and  "Brussel Sprouts," both of which are included in her forth-coming EP "Deer In The Headlights". Through six-tracks personally penned by Essence and produced by Jules Konieczny, Essence showcases her ethereal vocals as she reflects on her personal journey, experiences in relationships, and transitional phases in life.

Born and raised in North West London, Essence's upbringing was steeped in sport, specifically tennis, practising and competing in tournaments. At 17 she took to YouTube tutorials to learn the guitar and piano, as a way to escape the pressures of constant training and competing. Despite dedicating her childhood to tennis training, Essence's journey led her to pursue her true passion in music. After a year of studying Sports Science and Biology in the US on a tennis scholarship, she made the life-altering decision to follow her heart and pursue music. Growing up listening to a diverse range of artists, from Norah Jones and Lauryn Hill to Simon and Garfunkel, and later discovering the likes of Paramore and Phoebe Bridgers, she began to define her sound.

Since March, Essence has been touring and performing as a backing vocalist, guitarist, and keyboardist for the acclaimed artist Birdy. On 14th February, Essence plays Mahalia Presents at London’s Jazz Cafe, tickets are available here.