Been Loving You
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The Seattle artist Annie J blends nostalgic soul and modern pop for these 7 tracks aren’t short on harmonies and psychedelic stabs.
The bright mood of “Your Power” opens with J’s distinct voice alongside fluid drumming and warm guitars that retreat to dreamy bouts, and “Making Bacon” follows with layered voices of soulfulness and no lack of grooves.
“Around The Block” and “Can’t Solve It” land in the middle. The former is a lush and rhythmic album highlight of sophisticated and stylish song craft, while the latter is a powerful and psyche-friendly EP highlight of tremendous beauty.
“Blue Angel” exits the record and doesn’t disappoint, either. It allows or J’s remarkable voice to shine in a calm climate that showcases her strong range amid some ambience.
There’s also nods to jazz and R&B present, as J recruits vivid storytelling to a talent that will draw parallels to Sharon Jones, Erykah Badu or even Billie Eilish.
Travels well with: Eddy Lee Ryder- Sweet Delusions; Vakili Band- Tannersville