Emily King is arguably one of the most genuine, prolific, and witty songwriters of her time. Her debut release East Side Story, which garnered her a Grammy nod, was an R&B album on some type of steroid. It was unconventional, yet commercial. It was gritty, yet contemporary. The lyrics were telling, containing just enough metaphor for her audience at the time. While every record is unique and musically satisfying, her second single U &I became an instant favorite of mine, and placed her in my top rated list on iTunes. Her music is honest, raw, introspective and always palatable; but its her smoky voice which is almost imperfectly perfect, that leaves me wanting her to sing forever; and I must admit I was near tears several times while listening to her latest release, the Seven EP.
With seven beautifully written, well-produced tracks, this EP highlights some of the freshest vocals and musicianship I’ve heard in a while. Collaborating with the incredible Jeremy Most, whose production accentuates King’s voice perfectly, the duo managed to create a masterpiece. The EP begins with Down, a heartfelt ballad describing a relationship that has gone wrong. This track opens with stacks upon stacks of Emily’s voice humming a melodious line unaccompanied by any instruments, until the song starts with a few percussive instruments and background vocals [believe me, it’s way cooler when you hear it]. As the song progresses we get to the catchy hook, you keep pulling me down, down down, down, down, lower than I’ve ever known; oh you, tease me with a smile, than you leave me all alone. She effortlessly sings us through track after track of appropriately themed songs, ultimately ending with the super smooth Every Part. In between there’s the lovers anthem Sides, and a plea to a lost love whom Emily calls Georgia.
With a record as rich as this, it was imperative that I experience her live, and what better place to enjoy this experience but at SOB’s in New York. She performed a 5-song set as the opening act for Allen Stone on November 9th, and if I can be quite honest I was completely satisfied after she’d performed. Accompanied by Jeremy Most and a background singer, Aviva Jaye, she masterfully captivated the audience with songs from her debut album and the Seven EP, as well as an unreleased track entitled In My Evolution. The Seven EP was released a little over four months ago, and each time I listen to it [which is everyday], I fall in love with it all over again. Not to be compared with anyone in popular music, Emily King is in a league all her own and this record is a must have for all music lovers.
Purchase your copy of the Seven EP on iTunes and Bandcamp!
