Meet Erin Côté, singer-songwriter, actress, and dancer, whose EP, Cheeky Saint, reveals a smorgasbord of textures, rhythms, and genres.
Originally from Vancouver, B.C., Erin attended Capilano University where she studied Musical Theatre, followed by working as an actress in both film and theatre, and as a dancer. She began dancing when she was four years old and, eventually, would like to teach dance to children.
Cheeky Saint comprises three tracks, beginning with “Stranger On The Skytrain,” a song inspired by making meaningful connections with strangers on the Skytrain. Opening on waves of a classical piano, the song shifts into a delightful pop-flavored melody riding a buoyant rhythm. Erin’s vibrant voice, backed by doo-wop harmonies, imbues the tune with percolating energy.
“Diamonds and Gold,” a track about the danger of greed, travels on a sleazy melody as Erin’s dark voice infuses the lyrics with portentous savors. Oozing with wicked motion and an ominous rhythm, the song conjures up suggestions of the James Bond movie, Goldfinger, wherein lust for wealth results in tragic consequences.
“This is a tale of an old mademoiselle / Who lived all her life as a queen … Ashes to ashes / Dust to dust / She always did say one will do what one must / Should have been wiser where she put her trust.”
The final track, “Moon Madness,” is about the one who got away. Once upon a time, Erin was in love with someone she couldn’t commit to because of youth and inexperience. Opening on a tinny guitar, at once remote and full of echoes, the melody mirrors retro textures. Distant and filtered, Erin’s voice imbues the lyrics with cap-a-pie poignant tones.
With Cheeky Saint, Erin Côté displays not only her ability to compose contagious melodies but her superb vocal gifts.
