La Prima Estate

Erlend Oye's 'La Prima Estate,' which translates to 'The First Summer,' is a song that captures the essence of a significant life milestone: graduation. The lyrics are in Italian and they paint a picture of a young woman, Lucia, who has just graduated. The song begins by highlighting the moment of reflection as Lucia looks at herself in the mirror, recognizing that despite her academic achievement, she remains the same person at her core. The presence of her family, who have traveled many miles to celebrate with her, underscores the importance of this event not just for Lucia, but for her loved ones as well.

The chorus of the song speaks to the freedom and joy that come with graduation. It's a time for celebration, dancing, and perhaps a trip to the beach ('Alla zona balneare'), which Lucia has earned. The repetition of 'vai' (go) emphasizes the encouragement to seize the moment and enjoy the fruits of her hard work. Erlend Oye, known for his work in the indie folk duo Kings of Convenience, often infuses his music with a sense of warmth and intimacy, which is evident in this track as well.

However, the song also touches on the transient nature of life's moments. The certainty of the changing seasons, from summer to autumn, serves as a metaphor for the inevitable changes that come with life's progression. The singer offers a reminder that even when he's no longer around, Lucia should continue to smile and embrace her life. The advice to either seek counsel or celebrate, knowing that the singer is there for her, adds a layer of support and camaraderie to the narrative. 'La Prima Estate' is a song that celebrates a pivotal moment in life while also acknowledging the continuous journey ahead.