MUSIC
Artist Profile:
Who is Jeff Darko? The Music Of The Enigmatic British-Ghanaian R&B Artist
“It started at the age of 6 or 7, I discovered my love for it through gospel music [...] I would sit inattentively in math class, scribbling metaphors and compositions to take to the studio after school. I sang in church choirs and led choirs. My parents were heavily into soul music, so I started to develop my ear and voice through that experience,” [...] Jeff Darko recalls during an interview reflecting on his beginnings. Those early studio sessions significantly impacted the British-Ghanaian artist. His eclectic sound, which is primarily rooted in Afro-Jazz, Soul, hip hop, and electronica, would eventually solidify into a genre he labels psychedelic gospel. Explaining the concept, Darko says, “Psychedelic' has a core meaning psykhē in Greek, the revealing of the soul. When you reveal your soul, you represent your truth. “This is why the music may sound unexpected because it has not been filtered, it's raw, unencumbered”.
From his distinctive musicality to his captivating album artwork, Jeff commands attention. His off-kilter, distorted facial expressions in the promo shots for his 2024 project, “Merry Go Round,” are intriguing enough to halt an Instagram stroll dead in its tracks. Jeff’s enigmatic presence can be attributed to his life, which mirrors the borderless nature of his music. Born in Ghana, Darko emigrated to Paris for a time before settling in the UK while also establishing connections in the Belgian music scene. This international influence is a consistent thread in his work, which incorporates lyrics in French and English, traditional Ghanaian elements, and collaborations with acts like Korean artist Tellkika. Reflecting the lineage, Darko once said, “The traditional sounds we use, the bongos, the shakers, and the overall ambience. I am forever exploring new ways to introduce my tradition and culture into new and refreshing music”.
Collaborating with Sheffield multi-instrumentalist, Yarni, and Jamaican hip hop artist, Franz Von, on 2025’s “ Natural Light”, Jeff’s most recent project, “Merry Go Round”, dropped at the end of November 2024. To promote the EP, Darko headlined 93 Feet East in Brick Lane in London. The set, which featured an appearance by Mercury Prize nominee Corto.alto, marked a career highlight for Darko. Capitalising on the momentum, singles including “Smile Away” and “Overrated” garnered support from Spotify with playlists Fresh Finds, Sugar, & Groovin R&B. Jeff’s ‘Psychedelic Gospel’ also received praise from top UK tastemakers, BBC 6, Craig Charles Funk & Soul, Radio 1 Future Soul, and BBC Introducing, among others.
Inspired by” the experience of Jeff’s friend who kept going through the same experience over and over and couldn’t get out of it”, “Merry Go Round” opens with “Overrated” featuring Caesar. With downtempo jazz percussion, laid back snares, warm high hats, and dreamy glittering synths, Darko’s distinctly raspy tone conveys feelings of melancholy and isolation as he sings “I'm a lonely stranger but I know it's safer so I'm leaving you alone”. The airy falsetto of the hook amplifies the emotional weight, while Caesar's rhyming in his UK accent adds authenticity, with uncomfortably raw lines like “I'm sick to my stomach/ stick to my gut feeling /treat today like tomorrow like there's no meaning”
Elsewhere, “Don't Worry About A Thing” calypso style intro samples Stevie Wonder’s classic, “Don’t You Worry ‘Bout A Thing”. The sunny atmosphere sharply transitions to heavy hip-hop beats and intricate jazz trumpets. Maintaining the song’s essence of positivity with lyrics like “I think it's time we put the past to rest// Park the stress/ Count our blessings /while Jeff glorious high notes on a hook, breathe new life into Wonder’s “Innervisions” classic. The song’s self assured delivery and sultry horn melodies lend a sense of sophistication to the track. On “Les Quatre Cents Coups” meanwhile the sound of a fairground breezes by, a carousel spinning in the distance. The song’s title, which translates to “the 400 blows”, or more literally meaning to "raise hell" finds Darko embracing the depths of his lower register. Lamenting past regrets, the dark tone conveys the helplessness of a vicious cycle and the hope to escape it, while the hypnotically funky refrain, “it cost me all my money,” builds in intensity as it loops through the track. The chilled, neo soul-infused single, “Smile Away,” is effective; however, the hook, while catchy, has a slightly nasal quality that becomes slightly irritating with replay. Finally, the layered, swirling a cappella vocal arrangement of the E.P.’s title track gives the production a uniquely playful tone. The contribution by Korean vocalists adds softness, with the non-English lyrics ads an air of mystery to the track.
Darko, who claims to be unable to live without his “hat, headphones, and Kellogg's Crunchy Nut Cornflakes,” says his recording studio must-haves include “Water, Apple voice recording app, and a piano”. This simplistic approach to recording saw him release 2023’s “Feel Alright” Better Love”, and “Give it Thought”. The former’s bluesy tone evokes a timeless quality; its smooth vocal delivery is effortlessly cool. With a call-and-response chorus, it is instantly memorable. The latter, meanwhile, stands out for its sparse, rhythmic, yet soulful arrangement.
Describing his personal style as “vibrant, jazzy, and loud.” Darko fully embraced his individuality on his avant-garde 2022 release, “Strange Dreams” E.P. With three mixes of the title track, and two additional songs rounding out the concise eighteen-minute project, “Strange Dreams” minimalist approach of synths, clap grooves, and restrained vocal melody leaves Darko with the space to question what matters most in life. While the sparse, alternative production style may not appeal to mainstream R&B fans, Darko's willingness to push the genre’s boundaries is refreshing. The gospel version of the song, meanwhile, diverges from traditional church music, instead using trip-hop drum loops, trumpets, and a subtle, lingering Hammond organ to bring the spirit of gospel. The track’s final rework featuring Yarni is arguably the most psychedelic. Complete with retro, spacey sounds, additional strings offer texture to the fluid, experimental jazz horns as Darko sings with heartfelt conviction, “mama’s working hard these days.” Elsewhere, “Follow You,” Darko fuses romantic lyrics with electronica, gospel handclaps, and a catchy, soulful melody on arguably the most mainstream track on the project. On “Blue Skies, the EP’s conclusion,” Darko explores spirituality with lyrics, “the love, the joy, the light, rejoice”. As though finally awakened from his strange dream, the optimistic approach and understated arrangement create a moment of levity as the EP comes to a close.
Debuting in 2014 with “Epic Dreams of A Pedestrian”, the project was based on his “life's journey,” according to Darko. Each track illustrated a chapter of Jeff's life, from his afrocentric roots displayed on "Don’t Worry Me Now" to his emigrating to France, inspiring Mzet-Je Suis (I Am). It is this kind of vulnerability that continues to connect with audiences as they discover his music. Don't sleep on Jeff Darko- with such undeniable talent, his epic, strange and beautiful dreams should soon come to fruition.
Arrested Development Return With Their Superb Album, Adult Contemporary Hip Hop
Album Review
"We're moving forward while honoring that legacy. Obviously, we are always going to give people what they need. We talk about that in our new single “Pack it out” but at the same time, we're gonna take you further too, and people love to take the journey with us; they actually really love it”. Speech of pioneering hip-hop band Arrested Development reflects on both the group’s legacy and its future during an interview on Flip The Script Radio Show. With a career spanning over four decades, HSR decided to dive into AD’s history and their sublime latest album, “Adult Contemporary Hip Hop”.
Formed in 1988 in Atlanta by rapper and producer Speech and turntablist Headliner, the group provided an Afrocentric, socially conscious alternative to the graphic bravado of gangsta rap, which dominated hip-hop in the late 1980s. Success came with their seminal 1992 debut, “3 Years, 5 Months and 2 Days in the Life of...,” which garnered both critical and commercial acclaim. Hits like the undeniably funky "Mr Wendal" made the complex social issue of homelessness accessible to daytime radio, while the Sly Stone-influenced “ People Everyday” depicts the dangers of an altercation with a stranger. Suddenly, what many had considered alternative hip-hop was now mainstream. These universal themes connected deeply with fans, and the album went on to sell over 6 million copies globally by 1993. AD's unique style, a fusion of soulful, melodic hip hop and thoughtful, provocative lyrics, set them apart from their peers. Riding the wave of success, AD became the first hip-hop act to win the Grammy Award for Best New Artist; they also received the award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group, among their numerous accolades.
However, their 1994 follow-up, Zingalamaduni, failed to reach the same dizzying heights of adoration. Internal conflicts within the once-tight-knit crew led to their disbandment in 1996. Reuniting four years later, they have continued to tour and release music independently through Speech's label, Vagabond Productions.
Recent additions to the band’s extensive discography include 2024’s “Bullets In The Chamber”. Produced by UK super producer and Chuck D SLAMjamz label artist, Configa, as well as Sol Messiah and Will Montgomery, the album received praise for its politically charged tracks like “And This I Know”. The song cleverly juxtaposes a childlike La La La melody with unflinching lines like “white supremacists running as Republicans” and “Our classrooms are being blown away while Fox saying it's overblown.” The single, “Hip Hop Saves Lives” featuring Chuck D and Grandmaster Caz, meanwhile, is an upbeat, groove-driven love letter both to hip hop itself and the group’s enduring worldwide fanbase. Other projects like 2023’s” On The Cutting Room Floor Mixtape” featured the inspirational single, “Stop”. Dramatic, classical strings help to elevate Speech’s passionate plea as he spits, “so hip hop lets not fight anymore, we ain’t got all the time in the world”
In July 2025, Arrested Development dropped “Adult Contemporary Hip Hop,” Dedicated to the late Twan Mack, an artist that Speech once described as an “evangelist for hip hop”. The album, which takes its title from a mantra he lived by, is co-executive produced by Speech and Configa, with additional contributions from MRK SX, Ben Marc, and vocalists Tasha LaRae, Fareedah, Ke’Andra, and Bee Taylor. The 20-track project recently topped the Hip Hop Gods Top 20. Opening with “Let's Get On With It” featuring 1 Love, the production, reminiscent of Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Happening Brother,” with cinematic strings and a jazzy horn riff, it is the perfect soundscape for blistering lines like “Now consciousness is at a minimal /A President that talks grabbing girls by the genitals resides in the highest office of the land.” The album’s lead single, the Configa remix of “All I See Is Melanin,” is a joyful tribute to racial pride. The song, which features the debut rap verse by AD dancer, Fareedah, brims with positivity; the rich horn melody, funky guitars, and soulful claps complement the infectious chorus.
Elsewhere, “Live Forever” featuring Twan Mack is a classic-sounding call to action, over a heavy beat and an intricate piano melody, Speech talks breaking the status quo while aspiring to be better. The track’s boisterous chorus, meanwhile, is begging for live crowd feedback. The hypnotic “Flowers”, on the other hand, chronicles, among other things, the shadiness of the music industry. Its rhythmic synths, soulful falsetto lead, and gospel-tinged background vocals amplify the song’s powerful message. Meanwhile, “Pearls” serves as a reminder to find joy in living in the moment. Reflected in the songs' stripped-back production, the minimal electronic arrangement of the verses gives the soaring, optimistic chorus delivered by vocalist Ke’Andra more space to shine. Conversely, “Pulsate,” featuring 1 Love, is an old-school head-nodder. Impeccably produced, the blend of dreamy synths, hardcore beat, and the repeated refrain of “we pulsate” only draws you deeper into the groove. “Baby Yes” stands out for its retro vibe. With elements reminiscent of “Grooving” by Aretha Franklin, the song evokes the warmth of soul music’s golden era as the group reflects on their experiences touring the globe.
In the album’s second half, in "Mil Town Soldier," Speech offers a vivid narrative about the decay of his neighborhood and the loss of community. Poignant, not preachy, the song’s heavy percussion and dark trumpet melody only enhance the song’s intensity. Changing pace, the single, “Pack It Out,” is an instant party anthem. The sparse boom-bap beat and mesmerizing loop beckon the listener to the dance floor as 1 Love says, “Get it jumping like Michael Jordan.”; Elsewhere, the sing-along structure and heartfelt intention of “Family” is unapologetically uplifting. Its earworm chorus has future hit written all over it. The Configa-produced “Stay Awake” combines emotive strings, boom-bap drums, and celestial vocals from Ke’Andra, while Speech’s candid rhyme about the pressure of making a living in today’s precarious music industry makes for one of the album’s most vulnerable moments.
Finally, “Stardum”, the album’s breezy and melodic coda, offers insight into AD’s definition of success and perspective on fame. The tone, both sonically and lyrically, suggests a band more focused on their contribution to music rather than the notoriety it may bring. Musically layered, thought-provoking, and chock-full of killer beats, “Adult Contemporary Hip Hop” is a must-have for all real fans of the genre.
Artist Profile
Inhaler
Not your average nepo band. A deep dive into the music of the Irish indie darlings
“I think we were all into the same music at the time. There wasn't a lot of kids when we were younger that were into the Pixies or The Stone Roses... Metallica. Inhaler frontman, Elijah Hewson, tells a reporter backstage at Lollapalooza, Argentina, earlier this year, explaining the genesis of the band. He continues, “I think we just clung to each other for dear life. It was a necessary thing of expressing that side of ourselves. Then we met Josh a couple of years later, and he was in another band. He could actually play guitar, and he was actually a good musician, so once he was in, we were like, okay, now we have to be sort of good. Hidden behind rockstar prerequisite dark shades, the band's drummer, Ryan McMahon, chimes in, “The short version is, we just wanted girls to think we were cool!”.
The Dublin four-piece have come a long way, graduating from jam sessions between football kickabouts in their early teens to headliners of a world tour. Comprised of Elijah Hewson, vocals and guitar, bassist Robert Keating, guitarist and keyboardist Josh Jenkinson, and drummer Ryan McMahon, Inhaler are among the slew of Irish acts that have emerged from the country’s recent musical renaissance. The band, which has undeniably gained attention for the frontman’s superstar connections —Hewson is the son of U2’s Bono —an impeccable rock pedigree that is both a blessing and a curse, but more on that later. However, the allegations of unfair advantage disintegrate rapidly with even a cursory glance at their history. Tales of flat tires traveling to pub gigs in dingy venues like the Workman’s Club and The Academy suggest that the lads paid some dues. By 2017, Inhaler were creating an organic following via live shows, as their debut single “I Want You”, released on the compilation Garageland Volume 1, solidified their presence as a band. Meanwhile, tracks like “Icecream Sundae” and “We Have to Move On” garnered attention from fans of The Killers and The 1975, accelerating the band’s momentum. Inhaler’s self-released EP, featuring early versions of 'It Won’t Always Be Like This' and 'My Honest Face', both of which were reworked for the studio debut, helped to cement their core sound;
Signing to major label, Polydor in 2019, the band set out to prove themselves as a formidable live act, with notable support slots for artists including Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds. The debut studio album, “It Won’t Always Be Like This,” arrived in Summer 2021 with the optimistic, “Cheer Up Baby” selected as the project’s lead single .” The album, constructed via Zoom during the global pandemic, featured soaring guitar riffs and jangly percussion, making for a promising inaugural record. Chock full of intoxicating indie rock cuts, like the stadium-ready “My Honest Face” and the explosively gritty “When It Breaks,” the foursome's diverse set of references, with the Stone Roses, Gorillaz, and Pink Floyd all among their favourites, also sparked a willingness to bend genres. The sultry electric guitar and synth rock coolness of “Night On The Floor” is an unexpected highlight of the collection. The breezy and soulful "Slide Out The Window," meanwhile, is a dreamy ode to intense but fleeting love. While the Talking Heads-esque “Who’s Your Money On (Plastic House)” is truly infectious. Unfortunately, the angry lyricism of “My King Will Be Kind” sounds more juvenile than tortured. Inhaler manages to redeem themselves as the record comes to a close with the touching, minimal ambient interlude “Strange Time To Be Alive.” Slightly edgier and less polished than their future offerings, “It Won’t Always Be Like This” went on to top the charts of both the UK and Ireland, and was the Fastest-selling debut vinyl by a band this century.
Inhaler’s sophomore effort, 2023’s “Cuts & Bruises,” saw the band enter the studio with Pulp’s Anthony Genn. Continuing to refine their sound, with a baseline reminiscent of The Pretenders’ “Don’t Get Me Wrong,” the singable hook on “Love Will Get You There” gained traction on streaming platforms. The uplifting vibes continue with “These Are The Days”, its shimmering synths and nostalgic guitar melodies sound somehow classic yet current. While “If You're Gonna Break My Heart” is fairly schmaltz-adjacent, the song’s production is notable for its country and blues touches - an interesting, subtle left turn for boys in love with electric guitars. Speaking of, the guitars have their moment with the growling, distorted, yet catchy, “Dublin In Ecstasy”. The perennial fan favourite, which the band had struggled to capture the live essence of on record, finally receives the studio treatment here to significant effect. Inhaler also brought “Cuts And Bruises” to the live stage via a world tour that was bookended by dates in Dublin's Olympia and later The 3 Arena. While headlining shows across the U.S. and Europe, the busy quartet also opened for rock legends Pearl Jam, as well as The Arctic Monkeys and pop-rock chart topper Harry Styles..
In February 2025, Inhaler dropped their third album, the Kid Harpoon-produced “Open Wide”. Warmly received by many critics, the recent output has polarized some longtime fans with its mainstream appeal. While the essence of Inhaler’s sound has not been completely diluted, “Open Wide” is, by far, the most polished and, by extension, the most accessible album of the discography to date, drawing comparisons to bands like the Strokes and Sam Fender. “Eddie in the Darkness”, Hewson’s favourite track on the album, is elevated by blistering guitars and a chant-worthy chorus, which will attach itself permanently to your brain. The lead single, "Your House," recalls Borns' "Electric Love" with a joyful, gospel-infused chorus that is sure to be included in a romantic comedy soundtrack at some point. The title track, meanwhile, serves as a linchpin for the project. The slick electronic elements, provocative lyrics, and ambitious arrangement demonstrate what Inhaler is capable of when in the zone. “The Charms”, however, falls short for its lyrical laziness. With a run time of almost 50 minutes, this could have happily remained in the “no” pile. Hewson’s vocals, however, are stronger and more confident than on "Open Wide". Somehow, with that progression, he sounds even more like his old man, particularly when belting and singing in his upper register. U2 comparisons will most likely dog Inhaler for some time to come. In a pop culture landscape where nepotism privilege breeds contempt and misinformed assumptions about familial string-pulling to compensate for a lack of talent are inevitable, Hewson leaning into “Bono-isms” is a risk. Whether a product of his vocal maturity or a tactic to survive a cutthroat industry that both expects and criticizes what has come before, Inhaler, though talented, will have to be more strategic than most to carve out its own identity.
E.P Review
Divine Inspiration: Louisiana hip-hop artist, Wakai, drops his new E.P. "Heaven Made Me Do It"
Review
Louisiana native, rapper, Wakai is emerging as one of the freshest new voices in hip-hop. Raised in Baton Rouge, the wordsmith’s signature sound blends introspective lyrics, smooth jazz-infused production, and neo-soul-inspired vocals. His latest four-track EP, “Heaven Made Me Do It,” is the latest in a slew of releases. Sharing his thoughts about the project on Instagram, Wakai stated, "This is a time where our art can not only imitate life, we can reflect what we see and help others exist through it all. Let these songs be that for you”.
Born Austin Johnson, the aspiring artist counts the likes of D’Angelo, Erykah Badu, and Outkast among his influences. Causing a ruckus with a drum kit by age three, by ten, he was, in his own words, “cooking up in the studio”. Building the foundations of his sound with 2019’s EP, “Pimps & Oppression”, by 2021, he was collaborating with production partner, Wavworld, on “Away Game Vol 2”. The following year would see the rapper’s studio debut come in the form of “To A Dark Boy,” which included the R&B-steeped “Starter Jacket” featuring Emmavie and experimental jazz of “When There Was No Sun”. Wakai’s prolific creative streak continued with the verbose and dreamy "Paradigm” and a notable collab with Mynameisntjmack and Tommy Richman, on throwback-inspired “Aslongas”. More recently, Wakai released “Magenta Skin” featuring Kaicrewsade and 2023’s “Some People Scream, Some People Talk”, a project Wakai defined as rooted in overcoming generational traumas, southern bigotry, and learning true self-identity".
The follow-up to “InBetween Trouble,” which dropped earlier in 2025, the thoughtful lyrics and astute observations on “Heaven Made Me Do It” invites us into the mind of the artist. The project, which has an accompanying short film in the pipeline, comes in at a concise yet impactful twelve minutes in length. Opening with the chilled, jazz production and church-ready vocals from Imani Vonsha, the titular track finds Wakai attempting to break free from his past. He raps, “I've been through some fire you wouldn't understand/ No longer carry luggage like a roadie man”. The high-pitched helium vocals on the hook, while catchy, perhaps substituting them for Vonsha’s powerhouse voice may have created a richer tone. Her soaring vocals do, however, shine elsewhere on the track. The E.P.'s second single, “Hot Comb”, meanwhile, features a stunning contribution by 3LISE, reminiscent of the golden era of Erykah Badu. The layered arrangement of live horns and jazz piano creates a moment of magic. Using music to banish his inner demons, Lines “Like my image and flock and all these battles I fought/ I felt my faith thinning/ Ended up just trimming the locs […. ]Cleanse my spirit when the lyrics speak and enter my thoughts” shows the rapper at his most vulnerable.
Meanwhile, the warm acoustic guitar and lush background vocals of “1221” featuring Samwyse draw the listener into the song’s confronting narrative. Wakai appears to be exploring the relentless grind of pursuing his creative dream, while the support of his family helps him remain grounded. Finally, the vintage-sounding sample and hypnotic hip hop loop of “Khemical” bring the quartet of tracks to its conclusion. The pain in Wakai’s gravelly delivery is punctuated by provocative rhymes inspired by the greed he has experienced despite giving his heart, and the scars this has left behind. The song reaches its peak with the powerful voice of a preacher offering a warning: “The greatest challenge you have to overcome is not overcoming sin, I’m talking about dealing with God.” From his eclectic sound to his search for spiritual connection, Wakai is clearly an artist comfortable with walking his own path, once musing to an interviewer, “There is no dress code to creation. Create what you feel regardless of what others expect you to be”. Simple but powerful words to live by.
Album Review
Virgin Territory: Lorde takes a journey of self-discovery on her new album
While Lorde's record label scrambles to identify the marketing genius who greenlit a batch of CDs that are not compatible with CD players, targeting an audience that is also incompatible with CD players, fans and media alike have been frantically clutching their pearls over the album’s artwork. Featuring an X-ray of a pelvis with a belt buckle and an IUD contraceptive device in the frame, the inlay cover image, meanwhile, is an intimate shot that lays Ms Yelich-O'Connor bare literally and figuratively. Leaning into shock value is often a glaring red flag about the confidence or lack thereof an artist has about their work. Still, thankfully, “Virgin”, while not earth-shattering, has enough substance to justify the hype.
The New Zealand native who crashed into the mainstream in 2013 with the monster hit “Royals” became a critical darling for her mix of darkly honest storytelling and high-end pop. “Pure Heroine”, Lorde’s debut studio album, garnered additional hits, including " Tennis Court” and “Team.” 2017’s sophomore effort, "Melodrama," was equally well-received, hitting the top spot on the Billboard chart. However, “Solar Power” in 2021 polarized listeners. Described as Lorde’s “weed album,” the fusion of folksy psychedelic pop confused longtime fans.
Kicking off with “Hammer, it’s clear Lorde is ready for her redemption arc with “Virgin.” Co-written by Jim-E Stack, the bold electronic production simultaneously harbors a sense of claustrophobia and minimalism. Leaving space for the lyrics to resonate, “It’s a beautiful life, so why play truant/ I jerk tears and they pay me to do it,” Lorde sings against a backdrop of sparse, rumbling synthesized beats that climb as if ready to explode into a full-on dance banger but stop short. With a memorable melody and nostalgic narrative, it would be nice to accompany Lorde on her journey of self-discovery for a little longer. Still, as if cutting the idea off at the knees, the track’s three-minute run time leaves it feeling underdeveloped. While this approach cultivates a sense of urgency, it is most likely a strategy to cater to the goldfish type attention span of streaming platforms like Spotify and TikTok.
Following the slick EDM-pop formula, the bratty delivery of the chorus of "What Was That" has the makings of a Summer smash, but hearing Lorde wax lyrical about her heady days as a drugged-out 17-year-old, now at just 28, comes off as too self-serious. She has not been on the planet long enough to be so jaded. Elsewhere, “Shapeshifter” stands out for being sonically fleshed out. The polished, cohesive arrangement of electronic drum loops, strings, and piano adds a moody texture to Lorde’s light, airy vocals. “Man of the Year,” meanwhile, finds Lorde at her most vulnerable. If you're willing to overlook the reference to her “recent ego death”, a hilarious notion for a world-famous popstar, this mostly acoustic ballad grapples with Lorde's questioning of her gender identity. Growling distorted guitars offer a surprise twist ending for the track, notching its intensity up to 11.
“Favourite Daughter” is a complex meditation on Lorde’s relationship with that fickle mistress called fame and the danger of craving her approval. Disguised by 80s-inspired handclaps and a fizzy pop melody, the lyrics allow the listener to go behind the curtain to witness the loneliness of stardom. “Clearblue” is one of the album’s more unconventional moments. Written in response to a pregnancy scare, the song, performed acappella, features multiple stacked harmonies. The density of sound could be interpreted as the swirling voices in Lorde’s head as she waited for the test results. While it works well, its abrupt ending is jarring on first listen.
While the concepts here are often not given enough time to marinate in their own energy, the album’s core sound and themes are refined enough to showcase Lorde's evolution both as an artist and a human. We can’t ask for more than that.
R&B Songstress Nia Smith’s Fearless Debut
Album Review
Describing her music as "a place where she can tell all her secrets", Brixton native Nia Smith is one of the music scene's most exciting artists to watch. With a vocal style steeped in soul and confessional lyrics, Smith's talent has already garnered attention from industry heavyweights like Jimmy Naples. Speaking about her debut E.P., "Give Up The Fear" released via Polydor Records, Smith revealed that her growing sense of self-belief inspired the title track. Meanwhile, her single "Personal", which is considered a standout of the collection, draws on the reggae influences of her childhood. The remix of the track, which features reggae icon Popcaan, has, according to Smith, helped her connect with her heritage. Raised in a musical home, the Brit School alum was surrounded by the sound of artists including Nina Simone, Lauryn Hill, and Amy Winehouse.
However, it was her performance of "Wings" by Little Mix at a school talent show that first sparked her musical ambitions. Using TikTok as an outlet to hone her skills, Nia's rendition of Adele's "Set Fire To The Rain" began to gain traction on the platform. Wasting no time, the straight-talking South Londoner earned support slots with Afrobeat artist Tems and the reigning queen of R&B, SZA, at her concert series at BST in Hyde Park. Produced by Grammy winner Jimmy Naples, alongside Tom Valentino and Ed Thomas, Smith has previously said she hopes her relatable storytelling helps listeners to "find a piece of themselves".
In February this year, Smith released, “Give Up The Fear + 3", a new edition of her E.P with three additional tracks, an acoustic take on her break out track ‘Personal’, an alternative take on ‘Reckless Soul’ – written alongside Ed Thomas, Violet Skies, and Jimmy Napes – and Lauryn Hill’s iconic ‘Ex-Factor’, a brave choice which is handled exceptionally well. Emanating a wisdom beyond her years, in “Give Up The Fear,” Smith sings, “the pain won’t stop until you give it up,” over sparse piano chord changes reminiscent of Mary J Blige’s “My Life” era. “Reckless Soul” stirs the senses with its intimate arrangement and powerful vocals. With her natural gift for connecting with her audience, creative authenticity, and beautiful tone, HSR predicts Nia Smith will be the brightest new star of R&B.
Somebody’s Child proves great music is timeless with their latest album
Album Review
HSR recommends "When Youth Fades Away", the second album by Somebody’s Child. Released earlier this year, we decided to revisit the project for the uninitiated. The Dublin-based modern rock band has garnered a significant following since the release of their self-titled debut in 2023. Early tracks, such as “I Need Ya” and "We Could Start A War,” displayed the band's talent and potential. Meanwhile, electrifying support slots for Bloc Party, Kings of Leon, and The War on Drugs connected audiences with their raw yet anthemic sound. Led by frontman Cian Godfrey, the latest album, produced by Grammy Award-winning producer Peter Katis, delves into introspective themes, particularly the shifting perspectives that come with age. Sonically, the band steps outside their comfort zone, drawing inspiration in part from electronic pioneers like Kraftwerk and the lyricism of the legendary Leonard Cohen.
The project’s second single, "Last Night I Held Your Hand," is a soaring, bittersweet rock anthem. With energetic guitar riffs and pounding drums, Godfrey's intense, gravelly vocals convey the track’s sense of longing and emotional depth. With a stadium-worthy chorus just aching for live feedback, the song was written during a reflective trip to Western Wales. It became the foundation for the sonic and thematic vision of “When Youth Fades Away,” according to the band. “It carries a sense of innocence from earlier releases,” Godfrey says, “yet breathes new life into the direction this album has taken.”
Meanwhile, the euphoric guitars and synths of the album’s titular track create a familiar nostalgic warmth. Reflecting on the universal feeling of uncertainty, Godfrey sings “I feel it in my head/ Myself of old ain't coming back/ When youth fades away I swear/ I'm lost in the power of it all”. The emotional tug-of-war is palpable. Elsewhere, the triumphant heart-swell that is “New Orleans” processes glimmers of magic, but ends too soon, leaving the listener wanting more. “Wall Street” has all the elements of a commercial hit. A classic yet fresh guitar melody elevates its bombastic, unapologetically catchy chorus. Godfrey’s guttural delivery of the verses also helps infuse some grit into the proceedings. “My Mind Is On Fire” is an emotive ode to the conflict between a hopeful future and clinging to the past. Guitar ballad, “The Waterside,” stands out for its minimal production and haunting atmosphere. Album finale, “Time Of My Life”, combines 80s-inspired synths and an outro made for singing out of a car window at full volume. Youth fades away, yes, but Somebody’s Child proves great music is timeless.
Cult Classic Queen: The Music Of Cassie
Artist Profile
"I can't say that I've been respected. There's a big part of me that wanted people's respect and not on a level of just listening to me speak, but listening to the music that I make and the music that I want to play for them. I think I've gotten shaded in a lot of situations where people just haven't given me a chance. Then I have been blessed enough to have been given those other chances, those second chances, so now people are listening to what I have to say." Cassie revealed to Hypetrak TV in 2013.
Speaking in the interview 12 years before allegations against Diddy, Cassie's words now seem eerily prophetic, a glimpse into a world where she struggled for respect, autonomy, and to be heard. Rising from the silence, Cassie Ventura has finally found her voice. Her recent testimony in the trial of Sean "Diddy" Combs was both brave and unsettling, and at times deeply harrowing. As the proceedings of the RICO case against Diddy continue to dominate headlines with the twisted world of Combs on full display, the former partner of the disgraced music mogul gave a detailed account of the abuse she allegedly suffered during their eleven-year relationship. Allegedly controlling both her personal and professional life with an iron fist, Cassie's creative output was limited, stifled by Combs' need to curate every aspect of her existence. From her style to her production team, Combs, it seems, lurked in the background pulling every string. Despite their allegedly toxic relationship, the collaboration produced music that sounds fresh and innovative even today. With her debut, Cassie [2006], the Rockabye Baby Mixtape [2013], various stand-alone singles, and soundtrack contributions, Ventura made her mark in the industry, with her releases considered cult classics by fans. Yet the soft-spoken, versatile performer never quite reached the heights of mainstream success she deserved. HSR decided it's the perfect time to celebrate Ms Ventura's brief yet brilliant discography
Debut: 2006
Beginning as a model at 14, Cassie met producer Ryan Leslie in 2004; Their professional and personal chemistry soon led to her signing with his production company, NextSelection. When the original version of the song, "Me & U," gained traction online via MySpace, an early online music-sharing platform, the Connecticut-raised aspiring entertainer signed to Sean "Diddy" Combs' Bad Boy Records in 2006. Re-releasing her breakthrough single 'Me & U' with a more polished, minimalist production style, the song became a hit, reaching number four on the Billboard charts and number two on the R&B charts. The song's hypnotic minimalism and sparse instrumentation would eventually become a trademark of Cassie's sound. Her self-titled debut album's combination of Ventura's breathy, laid-back delivery and futuristic R&B-pop was well received for its catchy hooks and crisp aesthetic. While Cassie's vocals were at times criticised for lacking range and power, she offered a sense of cool girl chic that audiences embraced as an antidote to the more heavily produced sound of the time. Dripping with attitude, the electro R&B pop of the single "Long Way 2 Go" garnered greater success in Europe than in the States, showcasing her potential to break through internationally. Elsewhere, on the album, Cassie's naturally sweet tone aligns beautifully with the acoustic ballad “Not With You.” Conversely, the funk guitars and Janet Jackson-esque layered vocals of "Miss Your Touch" create an album highlight. Not devoid of missteps, the immature-sounding "Ditto" and the pop punk of "What Do You Want," haven't aged well. However, it's the songs inspired by dysfunctional relationships that still feel the most impactful, almost two decades later. The darkly atmospheric "Kiss Me" and “Call You Out” possess new power in retrospect.. Written before her relationship with Combs in “Kiss Me”, when Cassie sings, "I'm intoxicated, I can barely breathe," the association is unavoidable. Cassie appeared on the music show 106 & Park to promote the album. Visibly nervous, Ventura’s vocals were described as “less than stellar.” The backlash was swift, with critics writing Cassie off as a studio creation. Diddy publicly defended his artist in a rare moment of empathy for the unusually cut-throat entrepreneur. In the years since, the doubters have been silenced as Ventura's debut has been reevaluated in recent years and credited with influencing the alt-R&B genre.
The Unreleased Second Studio Album: "Electro Love" [2008]
In 2008, Ventura entered the studio excited to record her sophomore album. According to Cassie, at the time, the working title "Electro Love" featured superstar collaborations with Ne-Yo, Maxwell, and Robin Thicke. Industry heavyweights, including music collective The Clutch, The Neptunes, Brian Michael Cox, and Mario Winans, were reportedly contributing their talents to the project. "Official Girl," featuring Lil Wayne, marked the beginning of a new musical era. While the song failed to reach the Billboard chart, the track's slick music video effectively conveyed Cassie's newfound confidence. However, when the project was again halted because tracks leaked online, the experimental, Latin-infused "Must Be Love" featuring Diddy was dropped to maintain momentum. The video depicts Diddy and Cassie separated by a wall in a house engulfed in flames —a visual metaphor that speaks volumes in 2025. A collaboration with Akon brought the carefree, club-banger "Let's Get Crazy," and after signing a new deal with Interscope [in partnership with Bad Boy], Cassie worked to reinvent her sound. The result was the pulsating "King Of Hearts." Diving head-first into house and techno, the song’s escalating monster groove clashes with Ventura's delicate delivery, which felt innovative and unexpected for its time. Cassie's aggressive yet catchy collaboration with Nicki Minaj in 2013 contrasted sharply with the ambient electronica production of "Balcony," featuring Young Jeezy. This low-fi gem exemplifies Cassie's signature of rough-edged, effortless cool.
Rockabye Baby Mixtape [2013]
With her second studio album no closer to fruition, Ventura channeled her energy into her mixtape, “Rockabye Baby”. Considered her most accomplished work to date, the project dropped in 2013 to practically universal critical acclaim. Inspired by the character of Keisha in the ’90s classic movie New Jack City, Ventura embodies a streetwise persona that contrasts with her naturally sweet demeanor. Hair shaved on one side, donning gold lipstick, and brandishing a blinged-out firearm- and that's just the artwork. The music does not disappoint. Featuring a who’s who of hip-hop, including Rick Ross, Wiz Khalifa, and Meek Mill, among others, the gritty sound showcased a darker side of Ventura. Setting the tone for the project, the understated yet assertive “Paradise” is a highlight of the project. Steeped in electronica-tinged hip-hop, the song portrays Cassie as an unapologetic force of nature. “You're my heroin and cocaine. I know you're not good for me, but I don't want to go away”. Cassie sings the raw and sinister-sounding 'Addiction.' The intensity of French Montana’s verse, complete with funeral tolls, adds to the forboding nature of the track. Meanwhile, Numb featuring Rick Ross invites us to escape with her. What seemed like rock n roll hedonism could now be reassessed as the destruction of her spirit. Flawless in its execution, Rockabye Baby demonstrates the true depth of Cassie’s talent when paired with the right collaborators.
2019: Ventura Music
Releasing the stand-alone singles ” Love a Loser " and " Don't Play it Safe” in 2017, Cassie finally cut ties with Diddy the following year. Embracing her autonomy, in 2019, she formed the independent label, Ventura Music. Reinvigorated by her new creative outlet, Cassie began the Free Fridays Playlist. Dropping a new song each Friday, the playlist helped Cassie reconnect musically with fans. Featured tracks include the dreamy, sensual "Moments" and emotionally honest "Excuses." Both produced by Chris N Teeb (Ciara, Tiffany Evans, Danity Kane). The latter, which samples Lauryn Hill's "Sweetest Thing," is an angelic acoustic ballad that lays bare the scars left by an unhealthy relationship. Elsewhere, "Hungover" is as haunting as it is beautiful, while on “Don't Let Go”, Cassie brings contemporary R&B coolness as she celebrates the security of true love. “Simple Things” reminds us that the best things in life are free, cementing Cassie's personal and creative evolution.
The Future
Only Cassie knows what comes next. If she returns with new music, her solid, long-time fanbase is sure to welcome it with open arms. While she may not be a vocal powerhouse, she cherishes the voice she has, embracing its limitations and harnessing its unique and special tone to create a sound that continues to be imitated today. Despite unimaginable adversity, Cassie's journey continues. As she builds her career, her legacy, and her family, her strength proves that some spirits are simply unbreakable.