★★★★★
In Loveday's own words, her recently released debut single 'Close' is 'like a mini-anthem to just being true to yourself, being unafraid to say how you really feel and to just let go a bit'. It certainly comes across as a beacon of hope for those are romantically downtrodden/having trouble expressing their true self, and 'Close' feels just as honest and insightful sonically as it does lyrically. The 17 year old singer and producer from Warwickshire has certainly carved her own niche already; a minimal form of electronic pop that marries influences such as IDER, Oh Wonder and James Blake into a coherent and tranquil setting.
Loveday's voice is both haunting and smooth throughout 'Close', with the vocoder-tinged chorus oozing silky R'n'B over the intricate drum patterns and mellow synthesizer chords. Her abilities as a producer should not be understated either. The textures and ambiences are all arranged immaculately to fit around her vocal, neither being obtrusive or retreating too far into the background. The final result is uncompromising and honest, true to the track's straight-up lyrics and production.
Make no mistake, this is an extremely impressive and polished debut. I for one, cannot wait to hear more from Loveday.
Loveday - 'Close' is out now. Stream the track below:
