While sorely missed, the vintage styling of Amy Winehouse’s music has not died. Alive and well in retro soul artists like Seinabo Sey and Paloma Faith, Winehouse’s legacy of deeply moving, emotive melodies have continued on in various forms. Some artists have reclaimed this music with heavy pop inflections, while others have gone for far more orchestrated masterpieces of booming drums and large choirs.
With the rise of Snoh Aalegra, Winehouse’s intimacy seems reborn.
Snoh Aalegra, whose recent endeavors include working with Kanye West and producer No I.D., seems destined for fame. Her music is equal parts jazz, soul and R&B. It’s end product being an approachable, yet highly sophisticated sound unparalleled in the industry today. With the release of her latest EP, “Don’t Explain,” Aalegra’s future is bright and promising.
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The title track off of the EP is just one example of Aalegra’s artistic prowess. Like Winehouse, Aalegra’s voice is drenched in antiquity. Her breathy vocals playing over drifting drums and synths culminate into the type of track that could easily fit a James Bond soundtrack. It’s the type of music that surpasses the title of “throwback” and enters a space of progression. “Don’t Explain” is an impressive standout on an EP gleaming with impressive standouts.
On “Home,” Aalegra feeds into her R&B inflections, while tracks like “Under The Influence” delve deep into soulful beats. “Home” echoes with feathery vocals and bouncing beats. Like “Don’t Explain,” it is something that pairs retro quality with something that is entirely revolutionary. For “Under The Influence,” this impressive ability is maintained while providing a track that is powerful and timeless.
The EP’s most impressive track is also its last. Titled “Chaos,” this brooding and dark song is a commanding force written by “Chandelier” artist Sia. As Aalegra’s hollow voice sways over crackling instrumentals, “Chaos” builds into one of the oddest yet most compelling pieces of work released this year by any artist. “Chaos” is riveting and by its conclusion, audiences will feel entranced.
“Don’t Explain” plays subtly, but is thoroughly engrossing. It’s an atmospheric record with amazing packaging and even more to offer within. At nine tracks, including an intro and outro that play like a buzzing 50s television show, the EP is more like a mini album.
As a whole, the record is far more accomplished than it should be. It exceeds expectations and is more reminiscent of an artist with longer standing in the industry rather than a relative up-and-comer.
Snoh Aalegra brims with character and potential, “Don’t Explain” is simply an extension of that.
Rating: 4 out of 5
