Another week gone by means another instalment of 5 For Friday! As September runs down, an influx of music has dropped, most particularly R&B music seeing as its cuffing season! This week we take a look at a range of picks from the music world, whether it’s an upbeat R&B number, a tough talking rap song or simply something that depicts love and loss, we’ve got something for all comers as we put a unique spin on New Music Friday.
WESLEE – Something Bout You
Emma DD and Josh Grant, better known as the bi-coastal R&B duo WESLEE, are back with their smoothest effort yet.
Titled ‘Something Bout You’, the serene allure of the song is heightened by Josh’s minimalist canvas, allowing Emma’s rich vocals some room to detail what it is about her lover. Theo Batterman and Clint Frift’s directorial brain child was partially inspired by Emma’s wish to eat cereal and chill; a simple wish that is conveyed in almost every shot of this tranquil visual. Look out for their sophomore EP, which is scheduled to drop in Q1`2020.
Sinead Harnett – All That You Are
The talented singer-songwriter continues to ascend with one of the highlights from her debut album ‘Lessons In Love’. ‘All That You Are’ is earnest in nature and finds Sinead longing to be beside her lover, offering her love on a platter despite his reluctance to open up.
Produced by Monro, the ballad is primarily led by soft keys and Sinead’s soulful utterings – which are fit for purpose here. The accompanying video allows us to see how this song, and possibly the album, were crafted in an intimate studio setting. Sinead Harnett demonstrates why she is one of the most highly rated R&B acts the country has to offer as she continues to build an impressive back catalogue.
H.E.R. – Slide (feat. YG)
Even though she has made a few public appearances in the last year, one thing is for certain when it comes to the 22 year old Vallejo native.
H.E.R’s mystique is as intriguing as her contemporary style is consistent; and that is plain to see in her latest collaboration. ‘Slide’ is a departure from her more vulnerable ballads, as the deep bassline accentuates the subtle claps and hi-hats in true West Coast fashion. Along with fellow Left Coaster YG, they detail the thrill of the late night ‘one on one’ as they let the vibe carry them.
D-Block Europe – Playing For Keeps (feat. Dave)
In what is surely an unprecedented power move, two of the biggest UK Rap acts in Dave and D-Block Europe collide on this latest effort.
‘Playing for Keeps’ finds the dynamic duo Young Adz and Dirtbike LB trading braggadocious bars with 2019 Mercury Prize winner Dave – over a thumping beat that favours the tandem. Dave steals the show with a verse that displays how versatile the precocious talent can be, comfortable among rap giants from the other side of his world. Directed by none other than Rapman, the visuals show that ‘Playing For Keeps’ can either relate to the streets or just a private game of poker, with guest cameos from Top Boy’s Michael Ward and comedian Michael Dappah giving the visual a short film feel, and some jokes if you watch until the end!
DaBaby – Intro
Last but certainly not least, the Charlotte, NC resident has been enjoying the fruits of his labour, as detailed during our Cover Story earlier in August.
On the DJ Kid-produced intro to his sophomore album ‘KIRK’, the rapid spitter gets into his introspective bag as he juxtaposes what he came from with his newfound (read: earned) success. Speaking on his late father – who is seen holding a young DaBaby on the album cover – his late grandma and even how his daughter is the spitting image of his dad on what is easily his most introspective release to date. The visuals captures him with his family; including a scene that alludes to his father’s passing. Check out his new album ‘KIRK’, which just dropped.
