The ultra-talented UK singer Sasha Keable just dropped her second EP Lemongrass and Limeleaves a couple of days ago. While her first EP Blackbook was more reserved to solidify her as a top rnb singer, this EP is about exploring different styles while showcasing Sasha Keable’s skillful versatility. The first single Living Without You has this catchy 80s soul fee that flows perfectly with her strong vocals. But in my opinion, the standout track of the EP is Memories; Sasha Keable’s smooth voice stands out over the subtle dulled down piano. Go cop this EP from here, it is free!
Soul
I know it is a little bit late, but better late than never. The man behind the super successful collaborations Fela Soul and Bizarre Tribe Amerigo Gazaway has released Yasiin Gaye: The Departure. The project is a mashup between the Marvin Gaye and the Brooklyn rapper Yaasin Bey aka Mos Def, it is the first instalment in his new series Soul Mates. Amerigo Gazaway comes correct with this collaboration, he effortlessly creates these new orchestrations as if there were originally recorded. The soulfulness of Marvin Gaye mixed with Bey’s on point delivery is balanced perfectly while still staying true to each artist. Lately there has been a few mashup collaborations but this one is top quality. I can wait for the next instalment, Check it out!
D’Angelo’s Voodoo is probably one of my favorite soul albums of all time, I think I could put it in my top ten maybe even top five. I will probably get a lot slack for saying that but in my opinion, there isn’t a more complete neo-soul album out there. Voodoo has everything, it has blues, soul, jazz, and even salsa. It is incredible that Voodoo dropped 2000 and still the sound is relevant. The LA native and talented dj, producer, and emcee Kero One flips D’Angelo’s Spanish Joint. Kero One masterfully transforms the song from a laid back to a more uptempo dance jam while still allowing D’Angelo’s voice to shine. Mad props to Kero One for the free download, don’t sleep and cop it!
The golden era for UK soul is here, the scene is pumping out some talented artists. One of the most promising artists is Sasha Keable, the talented nineteen year old songstress is set to drop her new EP Lemon Grass & Lime Leaves on May 12, 2014. The single off the EP is called Living Without You, it is a throwback to that deep 80s soul. Sasha’s voice effortlessly fits perfectly over the rhythm, it is evident to her talent and skill as she willing to expand her repertoire outside her to new sounds. If you haven’t checked her free EP Black Book, go grab it for free from here. Cop the new EP in May!
Jose James has been a staple in the jazz and rnb game since his debut album The Dreamer in 2008. He continually pushes the boundaries by incorporating different styles in his music while still staying true to his jazz roots. The next progression for Jose James will happen on June 10, 2014 when he releases his next full length album While You Were Sleeping. The new album will be entirely produced by Jose James and Brian Bender. This new creative direction will allow Jose James to be more in control of his sound and I think will allow him to push the boundaries even further. Check out his cover of Al Green’s Simply Beautiful, it will appear on the new album.
Aaron Livingston a.k.a Son Little has dropped a new single Your Love Will Blow Me Away When My Heart Aches and this emotionally charged yet addictive song leaves you wanting more. The stripped down bluesy sound fits perfectly under Son Little’s eerie but soulful voice. The official video has this smoky pseudo noire theme that matches perfectly over the dark and saddening lyrics. Don’t Sleep and check out the new single!
The last few years have started the golden era for UK jazz and soul, you have seen artists explode like Corinne Bailey Rae, Estelle, and the late Amy Winehouse. The scene is still pumping out some great artists, these amazing up and comers aren’t afraid to cross genres and push the boundaries. One of these upcoming artists that is likely to make some power moves is Angela Ricci. You may have never heard her name but she has been a back up singer for some famous artists such as Kelis and the Heavy. Angela Ricci is ready to leave the shadows and become the main spotlight. All I have to say is watch out, she has the talent to become a big star. Angela Ricci has released her second single Lazy Love, she has this infectious voice that is so smooth. Lazy love has this simple mellow jazz beat that showcases her voice perfectly. Watch out for her EP, but check out the video below!
French soul heavyweight Ben L’Oncle Soul has been hard working on his sophomore album and he ready to release the album this year. Hallelujah (J’ai tant besoin de toi) is the first single off the album, the whole album is backed by the fantastic Monophonics. In fact, the whole album was recorded and produced with the Monophonics at their studio in Califormia. The new single is a real soul burner. As well, there is a crazy collaboration between L’Oncle Ben and the super talented Gregory Porter doing a rendition of Bill Withers’ Grandma’s hands. Check both videos out!
I have been a follower of the super successful and funny British web series Brothers With No Game (check it out here), while the show is highly entertaining, they feature some great music. I discovered Dionne Reid, the UK songstress is one talented singer. She has this magnificent soulful voice which elevates the reggae soul production. Dionne released her EP S.M.I.L.E, while a good chunk of the EP has this more acoustic laid back feel, but don’t think she doesn’t drop a couple of bangers. The track Here I Come just makes you want to dance, her voice is infectious over the bumpin production. I can’t wait to hear to more from her, check the two track below and see her versatility.
I admit it, I completely missed Joya Mooi’s newest album Crystal Growth until she recently dropped the second single Way of Life, all I can say is, she kills it. The live instrumentation with the dope horns, and her unbelievably soulful voice just makes the perfect track. Every time I hear the Way of Life, I get this smile on my face especially seeing the video, you can see that Joya Mooi loves performing, it is like she radiates joy when she sings. The album Crystal Growth could be considered more of a jazz album but I would classify it in that Robert Glasper type hybrid of Jazz, Rnb, and Soul. The first single Beyond Of You, has that slow tempo with more stripped down production with Joya Mooi’s voice prominently showcased. All I can say is don’t sleep on this album.









