Release Date: April 18, 2025
Label: Free Lunch Records / Warner Records
Alex Isley, daughter of Ernie Isley of the legendary Isley
Brothers, has carved her path with intimate, atmospheric, and emotionally rich
music. Known for her silky vocal layers and refined production choices, she
continues to push creative boundaries while staying rooted in soul.
Isley’s sound is in full
bloom, blending warm harmonies, minimal beats, and introspective lyrics
effortlessly. While her music has often been labeled as R&B, neo-soul, or
chillwave, none of these terms fully capture the subtle power of her work. The
uniqueness of this EP lies in its genre-defying style and emotional honesty,
which are sure to resonate deeply with both longtime fans and new listeners.
What I appreciated the most about this EP is how Alex Isley
layers her sound, primarily through her use of harmonies and space. The subtle
shifts in tone and mood throughout are impressive and emotionally engaging, and
she delivers them with finesse from start to finish.
“Holding On” opens the EP with a soulful reflection on
resilience and quiet strength, setting the emotional tone for what’s to come.
The track carries a calm yet determined energy, driven by soft percussion and
ambient textures that gradually build throughout. An underlying sense of hope
is woven into the arrangement, making it both soothing and uplifting. It’s a
cathartic beginning—especially resonant for listeners navigating change or
learning to let go with grace.
“Ms. Goody Two Shoes” follows with a playful yet introspective
tone, showcasing Alex Isley’s ability to balance lighthearted energy with more
profound reflection. In this song, she explores themes of perception,
expectations, and self-identity, questioning the labels others place on her.
The retro-inspired production, featuring groovy basslines and laid-back drums,
gives the track a smooth, throwback R&B feel. Isley’s layered vocals bring
texture and attitude, adding a touch of sass that contrasts beautifully with
the song’s contemplative core.
“Mic On” carries the momentum forward with a confident,
groove-filled statement that radiates self-assurance. The funk-inspired
instrumentation and slightly bolder production give the track a lively,
empowering energy, marking a shift from the more introspective tone of the
earlier songs. Alex Isley sounds completely in control, embracing her voice and
presence with quiet strength. It’s a magnetic moment that feels like her
stepping fully into her power, composed, assured, and unmistakably herself.
“Hands” softens the mood again, offering a tender exploration of
emotional and physical intimacy. Isley’s signature ethereal vocals float over
minimalist production, creating a warm, introspective atmosphere. The delicate
vocal layering and subtle harmonies draw the listener in, making it one of the
more vulnerable moments on the EP. It’s a beautifully crafted piece that shows
the power of simplicity.
“Fool’s Gold” deepens the emotional arc with a raw, honest
portrayal of heartbreak and realization. The track captures the pain of chasing
a love that turns out to be empty, with sparse instrumentation that lets
Isley’s vocals take center stage. Her performance is delicate yet powerful,
conveying vulnerability with striking precision. It’s one of the most
emotionally resonant songs on the project and a shining example of her
expressive range.
“Thank You For A Lovely Time” closes the EP bittersweetly,
blending heartfelt gratitude with quiet melancholy. The song plays like an
unsent letter—reflective, tender, and tinged with a sense of nostalgia. Jazzy
chords provide a lush, vintage feel, while Isley’s elegant phrasing adds depth
and grace. It’s a fitting conclusion that leaves a lasting impression, tying
the emotional threads of the EP together with sophistication and soul.
WHEN is a beautifully cohesive EP that showcases Alex Isley’s gift
for blending vulnerability, elegance, and soul. Each track offers a distinct
emotional moment, carried by her smooth vocals and thoughtful production. From
quiet strength to heartfelt reflection, the project feels intimate and
intentional, leaving a lasting impression that endures long after it concludes.
Briunta Waters-MuzikMan.net Staff
May 16, 2025
Tracks:
1. Holding On
2. Ms. Goody Two Shoes
3. Mic On
4. Hands
5. Fool’s Gold
6. Thank You For A Lovely Time
No comments:
Post a Comment