RedazioneAnnie J’s Been Loving You is an album that resonates deeply with the listener. The Seattle-based artist, known for her retro-soul vibe combined with modern pop and R&B influences, has crafted a powerful and intimate collection of songs that reflect her personal journey of healing, self-discovery, and vulnerability. Blending genres like alternative pop, soul, and R&B, this EP is a sonically rich experience that showcases Annie J’s versatile storytelling and musicality.
The album opens with Your Power, a track that sets the tone for the rest of the EP. Driven by a mellow, pulsating bassline, the rhythm creates a sense of introspection, while the shimmering synths add an ethereal layer to the soundscape. Annie’s voice is rich and warm, floating above the instrumentation with a soulful ease that immediately captivates the listener. The rhythm is steady yet dynamic, mirroring the emotional tension in the lyrics, which speak of reclaiming personal strength. It’s a perfect introduction to the theme of empowerment that runs throughout the album.
One of the standout elements of Been Loving You is its rhythmic diversity. Tracks like Makin Bacon and Gotta Give It Up highlight Annie’s ability to infuse jazz-inflected grooves into her alternative pop and R&B framework. The percussion is crisp and layered, with intricate hi-hat patterns and syncopated beats that give the songs an undeniable swing. Makin Bacon has a playful yet sultry vibe, carried by a smooth bassline that grooves effortlessly alongside lush synth chords. The production feels organic, yet polished, with a retro sensibility that evokes comparisons to artists like Erykah Badu and Sharon Jones, but with a modern twist.
The EP’s midpoint, Interlude, is a reflective instrumental piece that provides a moment of calm amidst the more rhythmically intense tracks. Here, Annie leans into her jazz influences, with atmospheric synths and a sparse yet soulful bassline creating a contemplative mood. It’s a brief but necessary pause, allowing the listener to absorb the emotional depth of the previous tracks.
In terms of atmosphere, the album strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and modernity. The synth work throughout Been Loving You is particularly noteworthy. Tracks like Around the Block and Can’t Solve are imbued with shimmering, dreamlike synth lines that float effortlessly above the groovy basslines and tight drum patterns. This creates a lush, immersive soundscape that complements Annie’s storytelling. Around the Block, in particular, stands out for its infectious rhythm and poignant lyrics about growth and self-awareness, while Can’t Solve feels more introspective, with a slower tempo and a more subdued rhythm that lets Annie’s vocals shine.
The final track, Blue Angel, is a stunning closer that ties together the themes of the album. It’s a ballad that leans into Annie’s soulful roots, with a minimalistic arrangement that highlights her vocal prowess. The bassline is subtle yet grounding, while the synths and sparse percussion build a serene atmosphere. The song’s emotional weight is palpable, as Annie reflects on self-love and acceptance, bringing the album to a cathartic resolution.
Overall, Been Loving You is a triumph of modern alternative pop and soul, showcasing Annie J’s growth as an artist and storyteller. Her ability to blend genres, craft intricate rhythms, and create a cohesive sonic atmosphere is truly impressive. The EP feels like an intimate conversation, where Annie’s stories of vulnerability and healing invite listeners to embark on their own journey of self-reflection. With its heartfelt lyrics, rich instrumentation, and soulful vocals, Been Loving You is an album that not only delights the ears but also speaks to the heart.
Tracklist:
- Your Power
- Makin Bacon
- Interlude
- Around the Block
- Can’t Solve
- Gotta Give It Up
- Blue Angel
