Rebecka Håland Skilbred & Nikolai Bergstad are the duo behind Reb Parker. Their EP “Getting Close” delicately explores human connections and relationships, delving into the ups and downs. Intimacy is an often explored topic, yet the duo puts its exceptional sound and style into it—effortlessly switching from ballad-like songs to more spoken word/R&B-based tracks.
The first and title track on the EP, “Getting Close,” is an alluring, romantic song with a slow-paced instrumental that emphasizes Skilbred’s smooth-like-butter vocals. About halfway through, a spacey guitar solo is introduced, adding a dreamy, hazy aurora to the song. Lyrics about closeness, physically and emotionally, are softly sung over the wistful instrumental, making for a beautiful ballad.
Reb Parker’s musical diversity is immediately evident in their following track, “If There Ever Was,” which opens with a fast-paced, ultra-catchy beat. Skilbred’s vocals are more sung in a spoken word cadence, a mix between rapping and singing. The guitar continues to bring the familiar, sultry vibe that Reb Parker possesses, while the lyrics touch more on the toxicity that can come from relationships. The final song on the EP, “The Best Person I Know Wears Your Name,” is a short but sweet song with loving lyrics over a catchy, calming instrumental.
