Kiesza

Released in 2008, 'Kiesza' serves as the independent debut of the Canadian artist, predating her global breakthrough with 'Hideaway' by six years. While her later career is defined by high-energy house and synth-pop, this record is firmly rooted in the singer-songwriter and indie folk traditions. The album was reportedly created during a period when Kiesza was exploring a more traditional musical path, including her time in the Royal Canadian Navy and her early training at Berklee College of Music. Sonically, the album is dominated by acoustic guitar and piano, with very little percussion or electronic interference. Tracks like 'Square Room' and 'Monks Of Despair' showcase a more experimental, longer-form approach to songwriting than her later pop hits. It remains a rare, sought-after artifact for fans, representing a complete sonic antithesis to her established public persona.