Soft R’n’B is the flavour of the day with Elysia’s latest single ‘Cherry Moon’. Released 11th November, the single describes a blossoming summer romance, and doesn’t ever break a sweat from its sexy, effortless vibe. The pensive lyrics are matched by the gentle, evasive jazz chords played by Pastels, who also produced the single.
The Melbourne, Australia based artist has been slowly crafting her sound, taking influence from all aspects of life, art and music. This has led to a rich musical blend, with elements of Amy Winehouse, Kendrick Lamar and Lauryn Hill being equally apparent in different aspects of the single. The haunting backing vocals create an atmosphere that takes the listener to almost a meditative state, encouraging you to reflect and relate yourself to Elysia’s lyrics.
Musically, the most imperative part of ‘Cherry Moon’ is the harmonies. They are essential to creating the atmosphere that is the main crux of soft R’n’B and Elysia manages this almost to perfection. Her performance is equally tender and passionate, entirely from within herself, which allows for the harmonies to feel genuine, creating an air of self assuredness. This, in turn, encourages the listener to share in this self confidence too.
While the overriding sense of zen is blatant, the raw emotion of the lyrics are visceral. This balance is the very essence of what makes soft R’n’B work, without it there would be no excitement or could be construed as lazy. However, this is never the case for Elysia as she balances the importance of both aspects perfectly throughout.
It is evident that Elysia is going from strength to strength while she grows in confidence, and with an EP currently in the works, one can only wonder what is next for her.
