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Photo by Nick McKinley

Named after the iconic Ella Fitzgerald, it’s no surprise that Ella Thompson’s music sounds like a blast from the past. Mentored by Australian soul icon Renee Geyer, Thompson knows how to craft the perfect soul song.

“There’s a Fire, Yet to Burn” is the fourth song on Thompson’s sophomore album Ripple on the Wing. The song immediately pulls listeners in with plunky piano before drums and Thompson’s vocals join the mix. The song is full of layered harmonies adding a richness and depth. Thompson’s voice is smooth and clear, the accompanying lyrics full of hope and optimism. In the chorus, Thompson sings: “Watching the past repeat / and it’s never too late to feed the flame / darling don’t you cry.”

The soulful groove continues through the second verse, as Thompson showcases her singing chops with quick vocal runs. The final chorus is even grander than the first, inviting signature horns to the mix. Accompanying the bright horns are the final lyrics, “Darling don’t you cry / I know there’s sunshine in your eye / darling don’t you cry / I wanna see / I wanna see / that sunshine in your eye.” With its optimistic, encouraging lyrics and bright sounds, “There’s a Fire, Yet to Burn” feels like a warm hug from your favorite person.

Ella Thomspon is the definition of “one to watch.” Having made waves in her home country of Australia, it’s only a matter of time before she branches out to the rest of the world. With 77 thousand monthly Spotify listeners, and four thousand Instagram followers, now is the time to claim your “I was here from the start” badge.