Iyla Elise Releases A New Single
- R.A.G.
- 9 hours ago
- 2 min read
“Better Days” finds Virginia-born singer-songwriter Iyla Elise at her most grounded and sincere. The song continues her streak of heartfelt Americana releases that balance hope with humility. While rooted in rock and country, Elise’s sound stretches into modern folk territory, blending grit and grace without ever feeling forced.
From the first few bars, I could tell the production aimed for something organic. There’s an alt-country feel to the way the instruments breathe, with steady drums, clean guitar lines, and a mix that leaves space for air and emotion. The hook brings in additional guitars, creating a subtle lift that grows into a satisfying burst of energy by the final minute. That closing stretch is fantastic; it’s raw, unguarded, and feels like the culmination of something personal. It’s also where Elise’s confidence shines through most clearly, as she lets the song expand naturally instead of forcing a climax. There is a quiet power in that choice, a sense of patience that speaks to her maturity as a songwriter.
What makes Elise compelling is her restraint. She keeps the instrumentation simple, with a straightforward rock setup that lets her voice and songwriting take center stage. Her vocal delivery carries the same soulful tone that I have heard on her other songs, rich with emotion yet always in control. There is something unmistakably human in the way she sings, unpolished in the best way, like someone telling you their truth without pretense.
“Better Days” stands as part of her ongoing run of 2025 singles, alongside tracks like “True North” and “Mother of My Mother.” Each release reinforces what her biography describes so aptly, a songwriter whose authenticity “strikes a chord with her audience and reminds them of their own life experiences.” I felt that here.