Christina Ward’s sophomore EP Rent is an enchanting realm of pop-folk

With influences like Mazzy Star and Cat Power, it is no wonder that Christina Ward’s latest EP Rent fills the air with daydreams as much as nervous gloom.

Released on Friday, the four-song set finds Ward leaning on a mystical vocal style that’s a captivating element of each track, developing from distant layered whispers like on “Ghost” to clearer harmonies on the synth-driven “Nightmare.” There is a pointed theme of pondering loneliness with lines that contemplate connection on the intimate “Wake Up” where Ward sings “I had dreams that you were with me.”

Ward’s second EP establishes her solo presence with her dreamy vocals creating setting the mood around colorful acoustic and electronic soundscapes. Rent is out now via Mint 400 Records; listen below.