Is this new album a 'Bop' or a 'Stop'?
On July 17th, Lianne La Havas released her third studio album. This self-titled project followed a lengthy hiatus from her second album five years ago. The 30-year-old singer from London clear did not waste that time. Whatever she was doing worked, this album is an entire vibe.
The first track of the record perfectly sums up the vibe of the record: Bittersweet. The whole album has an indie, laid back, jazzy, feel that will keep your head and feet moving. Still, subtle dissonance and unresolved chords throughout leave an underlying feeling of melancholy behind the summertime groove's veneer.
This unique feel is complimented by La Havas' voice, which seems to oscillate from carefree and funky to haunting and bluesy effortlessly.
The album is all tied together with her soulful voice and laid back instrumentation, tracks like 'Courage' lean into the depth and somber tone of her voice, while 'Paper Thin' turns that funk back up with a steady backbeat and prominent bass. This track also lets her show off the capabilities of her voice with clean, soulful runs.
Even the interlude track, 'Out of your Mind,' carries the project's nostalgic feel.
Overall the album is a breath of laid back, funky, melancholy. The timeless memory of a kiss from a person no longer in your life.
If you like chill vibes with soulful tone and musical complexity, then Lianne La Havas is a must-listen album.
This one is a Bop. No question.
★★★★☆