EP REVIEW: ELLI INGRAM- Sober

Elli Ingram is the latest female UK star to hit the scene. Having caught the attention of many a music loving YouTuber with her reworked version of Kendrick Lamar’s “Poetic Justice”, the Brighton singer/songwriter has continued to impress audiences with her particular brand of mellow jazz infused soul music. This has prompted critics to compare Ingram to some of the UK’s finest modern female vocalists such as Amy Winehouse, and Adele. Her debut EP, Sober, is an impressive six- track compilation of laid back songs, injected with acute youthful wisdom, and edgy personality.

There’s a real focus on emotional experience throughout this EP. Many of the songs detail the struggle to deal with conflicting emotions, and bittersweet moments. It manages to be introspective and personal, without becoming too heavy, or overly self indulgent. Featuring production from London producers, Felix Joseph, and Rudi Redz, Sober comprises a broad mix of musical elements such as Jazz, Pop, Blues, and R&B. These sounds provide an ideal backdrop for the engaging, quirky lilt of Ingram’s voice, which fluctuates between the light, breezy tone of Lily Allen, and the delicate emotive drawl of Sia. Although, musically this EP is steeped in tradition, there is something about Sober that just feels so unmistakeably like now.

 The chilled vibe of the title track, “Sober” lulls you into a false sense of calm. Its misty, muted beats, coupled with the soft, rhythm of Ingram’s voice, and the elegant horn section make it sonically deceptive. Lyrically, “Sober” is about being anything but. The song looks at alcoholism, and the often mentally and physically addictive nature of a self destructive lifestyle.

“Then I lose my soul to the poison that I’m on, but I can’t let it go to waste, and I love the way it tastes”

Conceptually, Sober looks at the idea of trying to maintain a balance between indulgence, and restraint. The musical flourishes are used sparingly; they are brief and tempered with simple lyrics and laid back vocals. Even The EP’s striking artwork alludes to the theme of moderation versus excess: A straight-faced Ingram sits, sporting a flush of white-pink hair, and clutching a bottle of whiskey, while surrounded by all the trappings of a chintzy, 60s-style afternoon tea. It acts as a visual representation of the internal conflict brought about by the desire for sobriety and intoxication simultaneously.

“Fun” is a great example of this. One of the standout tracks on the EP; it’s a light-hearted tale of good times. Ingram’s syrupy voice slides over the simple piano- led melody, and soaring strings, which give this track a real sense of scale, and whimsy. In terms of mood and subject matter, “Fun” is like the flipside to “Sober”: where the latter is filled with a sense of murky anguish and guilt, about getting drunk, “Fun” details an altogether more positive experience. The two songs display opposing attitudes towards similar circumstances. But Ingram never allows herself to get entirely carried away in one direction, or another- nothing is all good, or all bad. Even with the frivolous freedom of “Fun” the good times are tempered with sobering thoughts of consequence. That is what gives this song its flighty, yet grounding feel; it’s a gorgeous tune, definitely one you’ll be pressing the skip-back button for.

 “Took the walk of shame back home, with no make-up [...] And I know that it’s bad for my throat [...] I was so wasted champagne and rosé, the sun high when we got home, we were so faded [...] We were just having fun. We were dancing in the rain, so free, no shame. I want to feel that way again, so bring the bottles down and we can take the town again” 

Elli Ingram is an artist who shows, music’s ability to evolve and adapt. Perhaps not in the most flamboyant or obvious way, Sober includes subtle elements of so many different styles. There’s the 90s R&B flavour of “Mad Love”, and the Neo soul influence on “Elliot”. Her cover of Kendrick Lamar’s “Poetic Justice” is what brought her to the attention of so many. She takes a song that is fast becoming a modern hip hip classic and, (to use a coveted TV talent show catchphrase) makes it her own. It just sounds hot, fresh, and deliberate. It’s a re-work that’s more than worthy of the copious accolades it has received.

Sober is a strong debut. It’s a cohesive culmination of well produced tracks, which are instantly relatable. With these songs, Ingram tells the kinds of stories that a lot of people want to hear, and she manages to strike the perfect balance between personal and accessible while doing so. She has hints of Drake or The Weeknd’s introspective perspective; the catch-you-off-guard, lyrical bite of Ed Sheeran; and this all set to richly textured, Sade-esque vibes. What Elli Ingram has to offer is fresh out of the kitchen stuff. It’ll be exciting to hear what’s to come from this rising UK talent.

Download: Elli Ingram- Sober

As written for wepluggoodmusic.com 

EP REVIEW: SZA- S

Ain't no method to the madness just sit back and enjoy the crazy
— SZA (@justsza) April 19, 2013

...This Tweet from US singer songwriter, Solana Rowe- better known as SZA would make a great tagline for her latest EP, S.

Raised in the Orthodox Muslim faith, SZA spent her early years in St Louis, Missouri and later moved to New Jersey. A marine biology graduate and former strip club bartender, SZA has spoken of her sheltered upbringing, and how her desire to rebel against it informed her curiosity about music and pop culture. Although she only started recording in the spring of 2012, she’s been busy making waves on the US underground music scene, and is fast becoming recognised for her abstract style and chameleon-like vocals. At its core, SZA’s music is a mix of elements from Pop, Hip Hop, Electronic and R&B; but it’s her treatment of these elements, coupled with her enigmatic lyrical style that gives her music such a refreshingly unique edge.

Having released her debut EP, See.SZA.Run in 2012, SZA follows-up with S: the first of a trilogy of EPs to be released during the course of 2013. This first instalment is an intriguing catalogue of sweetly spooky vocals, electronic flourishes, and heavy, Trap music-style bass line patterns. The bulk of the EP’s production is handled by some of the industry’s most exciting newcomers, including experimental producers Felix Snow, Waren Vaughn and WNDRBRD. There’s also input from former OFWGKTA member Brandun DeShay, and the result is a glorious blend of Hip Hop flavoured Chillwave sounds, which SZA has described as “Glitter Trap”.  

S is characterised by its existential attitude in both sonic and lyrical terms. It delves into the complexity of emotional experience, and uses fantastically whimsical and intensely dark imagery to describe the minutiae of commonplace events. There’s an assortment of pop culture references, which work to interestingly articulate the EP’s broad sweep of philosophical themes and concepts. With S, songs that might sound like simple bedroom grooves soon materialise as dark, and at times, chilling assessments of emotional predicaments.

Fleetwood Mac, Sleigh bells, and a deliciously deep bass line are just some reasons to love the EP's first track, “Castles”. The Felix Snow produced track samples the sparkly intro from Fleetwood Mac’s 1988 hit, “Everywhere”. (Thanks to a certain mobile network’s ad campaign, this song might at first conjure the image of a little blonde pony break-dancing on a rural cliff edge. But fear not, the image soon fades when the other elements of this beautiful song kick in.) “Castles” introduces the theme of existentialism. It focuses on the idea of increasing displacement from the world and the search to realise a sense of individual purpose within it. SZA possesses amazing vocal dexterity; she is able to adapt to the mood and shape of a song with ease. Here, her syrupy- sweet R&B vocal captures an acute sense of innocence and anguish, while the thick, oozing bass line casts a shadowy sense of foreboding across the entire song.

“Shattered a thousand times before you found me, Kickin’ the pieces, I bet I’ll never amount to anything [...] Tell me it gets easier for me”

 

The Waren Vaughn produced, “Terror.Dome” picks up this thread of darkness, and takes it down a notch. It features clip from the classic horror film Rosemary’s Baby, which is referenced again later on the EP. Here, it introduces the idea of a growing sense of paranoia and affirms the EPs ominous undertones. The song touches on the feelings of anxiety and claustrophobia associated with the struggle to make sense of a world, which is becoming increasingly alien. It also alludes to the idea that there is a strange sense of freedom to be found in the fear. The songs musical arrangement is dominated by the meandering moan of a synthesiser and cool, eerie harmonies that fully captures the sense of seduction and, well, terror.

                “Picture yourself in a padded room, welcome to my Terror Dome” 

 

The paradoxical idea of finding comfort in discomfort is the subject of the song “Aftermath”. Following on from “Terror Dome”, both chronologically and thematically, it makes a comment on the seductive power of a self-destructive lifestyle. It suggests that maybe for some, a life of chaos is fated, and that as such, there can be an abstract sense of peace and pleasure to be found in the acceptance of that destiny, as SZA tentatively suggests in the chorus: “Maybe we should burn...”. This rather chilling philosophical notion is off-set by her smooth echoic vocal against the euphoric soundscape, and an array of fantastic imagery, which unravels with lyrical gorgeousness. “Aftermath” combines the rich tranquillity of a Sade or Dido with the melancholic chill of The Weeknd or The xx. In the picture SZA paints, there’s danger, trust and pixie dust; it’s irresistibly bittersweet.

 “Caught up in the blast, caught up in the action, caught up in the bursting flame [...] Stuck in your tandem, heat that’s worth standing, I like it.”

Lyrically, S is a glorious mix of the ordinary and the extraordinary, with an added touch of the absurd. SZA intertwines everyday details, like her mother’s dislike of non-matching underwear with talk of dream filled sandcastles, unicorns, and being made of bacon; and she does so, with fascinating fluidity. Also, any child of the 90s will be amazed by her ingenious references to characters from the hit TV shows, Boy Meets World and Doug. SZA's song writing is exciting; she’ll throw in a little surprise or an abstract turn of phrase, which hits you like a lyrical curveball.

"Feeling like Topanga, Patti Mayonnaise- kinda average with queen qualities... "

 
S is a trip; the EP’s musical, lyrical and conceptual exploration feels like a psychedelic experience. But make no mistake: although S is laden with allusions to fantasy creatures and characters from film and TV, it actually depicts a cycle of emotion that is firmly rooted in reality. SZA is an exquisite artist with something compelling, and unusual to say. She might tell stories that we’ve heard before, but we’ll not have heard them told quite like this. Maybe it’s about time we stepped into the glitter trap.

NEW VIDEO: Lana Del Rey- Summer Wine

The video for Lana Del Rey's latest song, 'Summer Wine' features her real life boyfriend, Barrie-James O'Neill of the band Kassidy . It's is a series of self shot clips, of the couple cuddling-up, and enjoying moments together in hazy summer sun.The song is a cover of Nancy Sintra's 1967 hit, and video has the o-so-gorgeous retro, Americana edge that we all know Lana Dey Rey for. Check it out...

NEW MUSIC: SZA- S EP

Emerging St Louis songstress, SZA (aka Solana Rowe) continues to impress with her newest project, S EP. The first of a series of three EPs slated for release throughout 2013, S EP is a dreamily heady mix of electronic soul, that's trippy and obscure in personality. The eight track collection contains gorgeously abstract lyricism, and is crocheted with various pop culture references. This is a really delicious listen- enjoy. Review coming soon...


S EP by Just SZA

NEW VIDEO: Macklemore & Ryan Lewis ft Ray Dalton- Can't Hold Us

Emerging rapper Macklemore and his long time collaborator Ryan Lewis have released the epic video for the song 'Can't Hold Us'. It's a cinematic offereing that was conceptualised by the duo and their team of creative partners. Part of what I love about Macklemore is that his whole project, feels like an artistic movement. He is the front-man for this bigger collective of artisans, all working towards a common goal, and this doesn't come across as contrived or gimmicky. Together, Macklemore and his team produce work that is rooted, organic, bold, and ignighted with quirky personality. It's really intriguing- I'm excited for what the feature holds for these guys.

NEW VIDEO: Frank Ocean- Lost

Frank Ocean put out this video for 'Lost', one of the most popular songs off his critically acclaimed, BRIT and Grammy- Award winning album, Channel Orange. The "life-through-a-lens" type video, directed by Francisco Soriano depicts footage from his life and travels in the summer of 2012. His official next single is thought to be 'Forrest Gump' and he has filmed a video for that, but while we wait for that release, 'Lost' gives another glimpse into the world of enigmatic artist in action- enjoy.

NEW MUSIC: Tawiah- FACes

The next single from the exceptionally talented, Tawiah is 'FACes'. Taken from her forthcoming mixtape FREEdom Drop, this poignant, mid tempo track is to be released in support of International Day For Street Children and Street Child  Africa. It showcases Tawiah's emotive vocals and feeatures richly textured production from Jodi Milliner. 

NEW MUSIC: Phoenix ft MKS- Entertainment (Blood Orange Remix)

French rock band, Phoenix feature Mutya Keisha and Siobhán  on their Devonté Hynes (a.k.a Blood Orange) remixed single 'Entertainment'. It's a great mix; I love the moody, intense, melancholy of the track. There was always something deliciously sweet and eerie about Sugababes' harmonies- it's great that they are in full effect here. British born Blood Orange is responsible for some incredibly original music, having worked with a variety of artists from Arctic Monkeys to Solangé Knowles. The multi-talented producer is working with MKS on their upcoming album, so I'm hoping we can expect the group to embrace, and build upon the quirky, cool, edge that they started out with, way back in 2000. Exciting stuff!

LIVE GEMS: Tawiah- Starts Again

I recently featured the uniquely talented Tawiah as part of my Artists on the Rise article for MOBO.com. There's something so raw, genuine and intense about her whole sound- it's intoxicating.

This live version of her song 'Starts Again' showcases so much of what I adore about this artist. It's a beautifully haunting song about the addictive nature of destructive relationships. I love the sparse honesty of the lyrics and music; it makes the song so hypnotic, and intensely grounding. If gravity had a theme tune, it might sound something like this.

FEATURE: Artists On The Rise

Artists on The Rise When all the official tastemaker lists have gone out and it seems everyone has decided who the next crop of stars will be, it’s easy to forget that there are always new artists diligently working at their craft and creating some of the most inspiring music you could ever hope to hear. The UK is renowned for producing talented musicians with unique artistic vision. We wanted to put the spotlight on some of the emerging artists who embody this idea. Check out these four amazing artists on the rise... 

KWABS 

 @kwabsmusic

 North London singer, Kwabena Adjepong- professionally known as Kwabs, has been creating an exciting underground buzz for some time now. He came to attention in 2011 after appearing on the BBC 2 series, Goldie’s Band: By Royal Appointment. Since then he has recorded a series of video sessions, featuring performances of original material, as well as stunning cover versions of Corrine Bailey Rae’s tentative ballad, ‘Like a Star’, and James Blake’s ‘Wilhelm Scream’. Kwabs has received high praise from some of the industry’s most respected artists including Joss Stone, and India Arie- who described him as “magnificent” on her Twitter page. His track, ‘Spirit Fade’ was released in early 2013. The sultry track is produced by Dave Okuma, who is lead singer of the three piece band, The Invisible and is also the producer of Jessie Ware’s impressive album, Devotion. ‘Spirit Fade’ is a mixture of gospel and R&B infused with soulful, electronic personality. The track is a blissful melange of isolated rhythms and echoic- baritone vocals, held together by an intermittent oozing bass line. With his relatively small catalogue of available music, Kwabs has well and truly whet the appetites of his growing fan base.

EGO ELLA MAY 

@EgoEllaMay 

 Singer/songwriter, and guitarist, Ego Ella May is steadily raising her profile on London’s underground scene. In a short time she has built a reputation for sweetly soulful vocals; inspired, experimental production; and charismatic yet humble stage presence. Ego Ella May released her debut EP, The Tree to much online acclaim. It’s a 6-track compilation of songs about love, growth and identity. The intensely mellow EP has jazz, soul, and R&B influences but The Tree is also laden with spacey, atmospheric instrumentation; summery- fresh melodies; and petal-soft vocals. These elements are skilfully assembled to create a delicately ethereal, yet progressive, neo soul sound. Ego Ella May is a solid performer with engaging, understated charm. She possesses vocal versatility, which enables her to scat and freestyle over her music with seemingly effortless finesse. The Tree is a truly accomplished debut from this 20 year old Londoner.

 SHAKKA 

@iAmShakka

 Multitalented musician, Shakka became involved in music at a young age. Hailing from west London, the singer/songwriter, counts hip hop, motown, reggae, and garage among his musical influences. Having studied music theory and production, Shakka incorporates many diverse musical styles into his music with charismatic dexterity. He has toured most of the UK’s major towns and cities and created a buzz with his Shakkapella video series in which he uses a combination of beat -boxing and vocal harmony to create vibrant interpretations of popular songs. He has since compiled a downloadable collection called The Shakkapellas, featuring the re-imagined versions of Beyoncé’s ‘End of Time’ and Azealia Banks’ hit song, ‘212’. In 2012 Shakka released his concept mixtape, The Shakka Crown Affair; an experimental album, which blends elements of R&B, electronic, jazz, and alternative rock. His latest single, ‘Sooner or Later’ is another sonically delightful amalgamation sounds. And he is responsible for the catchy hook on Wretch 32’s single, ‘Blackout’. Shakka is truly an artist in his own lane, and it’s obvious, there are good things to come from this talented musician.

TAWIAH 

@TawiahMusic 

Tawiah is a singer/songwriter from south London who is fast becoming known for her stirring vocals, emotive lyricism and wonderfully eclectic sense of style. The BRIT School alumna spent some years cutting her teeth in the music industry as a backing singer for the likes of Corrine Bailey Rae and British indie band, The Guillemots. Tawiah was also selected to tour with Grammy award winning producer, Mark Ronson, as the lead singer of his band, The Version Players. She has also featured on a remix of the Cee Lo Green song ‘I Want You’ from his 2010 hit album The LadyKiller. Tawiah’s debut EP In Jodi’s Bedroom was released in 2008. The 6-track collection fuses elements of jazz, rock, neo- soul, and R&B; and features the stand out tracks, ‘Watch Out’ and ‘Every Step’. Tawiah’s latest track, ‘Teardrop’ is taken from her upcoming new project entitled, FREEdom Drop. Produced by long time collaborator, Jodi Milliner, ‘Teardrop’ is a poignant song with an infectious beat. The quirky squeak of synthesizers and emotive vocals give the track an abstract yet accessible sound. There is beautiful rawness and honesty in Tawiah’s music. She is one of the most exciting and unique artists coming out of the UK, right now.

See, good aren’t they? These budding artists are definitely ones to watch, so keep your eyes and ears peeled for more from these beautifully talented musicians.

As written for Mobo.com

New Music: Frank Ocean ft Outkast- Pink Matter (REMIX)

Both Big Boi and Andre 3000 feature on a remixed version of Pink Matter off Frank Ocean's critically acclaimed album Channel Orange. This track originally featured Andre 3000 anyway, but the inclusion of Big Boi adds an interesting layer to this dreamy, indulgent, sexy track. Together Andre and Big Boi steal the show  from Ocean, a little bit: They each have this amazing way of putting their stamp on any record they're featured on so Ocean's vocal seems, somewhat marginalised to the point where he sounds like the featured artist on an Outkast track rather than vice versa! None the less it's a great remix.

FLASHBACK: N.E.R.D- In Search Of...



I remember first hearing this album and going into sensory overload! The fusion of different musical genres is immense: there are elements of Hip hop, Funk, Pop, Alternative Rock, Dance and R&B all fused together, blending and separating to create this amazing Alternative Hip hop Psychedelia. The group did receive some criticism for clumsy, crass lyrics, but I think this is a misunderstanding. The lyrics mirror the music to create a fusion of odd words and unconventional imagery. This album is about finding new, original and relevant ways to express and define age old feelings of angst, isolation, identity, love, sex and freedom. In Search of... is full of layers so everyone is invited to listen (or search); whatever you find is up to you.

This album was never really given the due credit it deserved for helping to open up a new kind of freedom of expression within Hip hop music. I remember Missy Elliott describing N.E.R.D as "grunged-out hip hop" and she was right. Pharrell and his band mates were skateboarding, trucker cap wearing, tattoo bearing rappers, the like of which, hadn't really been seen before. N.E.R.D made it OK to be a different kind of Rapper- a different kind of R&B singer and you can see the legacy of this with artists like Frank Ocean, Childish Gambino and even Lil Wayne.N.E.R.D will always represent a kind of punk Hip hop and In Search of... is as relevant now as it was then.