Singer explores conflict and grief on new EP, with powerful vocals and captivating music.
Having taken time out following her incredible run of form, Sarah Isabella returns with the release of her new seven track EP – ‘The Keeper.’
Debuting with the lead single titled ‘Only You,’ accompanied by a corresponding music video, she continues in the vein of her authentic style, with subtleties nestled in between. We are enamoured by the way the artist brings to light her way of working, with care taken to enhance the bigger picture through the nuances of her delivery.
Atmospheric melody bonds with the artist’s voice
Unlike most EPs, the opening track is an introduction titled ‘Beyond the veil’ which lays a spiritually charged foundation for what is to come. Shortly thereafter, we approach the release’s first song ‘Intuition,’ a jazz-soaked instrumentally led composition comprised of saxophone (Jermaine Dantzie) and rolling snares, as the singer offers the expected high quality performance we’ve come to know from her, and then some. Intrinsic production from Tolu Shorts is also highly noted for its velvety sound, allowing the canvas a fluid centre.
‘Only You’ reduces the tempo as she delves into how insecurities can find one lost in the space of our comfort zones, smothered by loneliness and longing for more. This is compounded through its succeeding piece ‘Sweet Isolation,’ where she duets with Tahn Solo, a neo-soul artist whose suitability for the song is proven through their collaborative execution of an intervallic partnership, where the two render their performance through a series of soft interjections.
On ‘Purple Skies,’ the depth of Isabella’s penmanship evokes a settling braise of emotion, as her demonstrable likeable style is akin to the some of the greats. The themes of searching arrive at a conclusion, where the austerity of the record’s theme ‘Higher Than Home’ acts as a conduit for the journey we have just been taken on.
Verdict
Isabella refuses to rush her work and, above all, is a true talent and a joy to dedicate time listening to. I only hope others will heed her example to create authentic music that pushes beyond the ideas of popular culture, trends, and superficial motifs. This release is a true gem and a bridge to connect with the artist fully in song as her skill is not learned but natural.
What’s not to like when you have a proven artist creating for purpose, forbidding anything other than that? Piecing together the precipice of today’s industry can be laborious, but ‘The Keeper,’ platforms the voice of a singer who understands herself with clarity. It’s truly refreshing.
Photo credit: Salam Zaied
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