London-born and Vancouver-based singer, songwriter, producer/ performer IAMTHELIVING whose music is not new to us. His brand of funk/R&B/soul and hip-hop stylings caught our ears in the past, and with his debut album Nebra Sky, he brings another layer to his artistry. The positive themes run through the 13-track project as we get to hear different perspectives and stories ranging from growth, self-discovery, and love with a dash of aspiration and inspiration over upbeat and captivating beats.

“Rockin’ London City” helps usher in the celebratory vibe on a high note. Backed by rousing funk grooves, slick funky riffs, warm organs and prevalent bass-driven rhythms, IAMTHELIVING leads us into this magical town where he has built his name and gives us a scenic tour while paying homage to the characters and the experiences that shaped his core being. This is followed by the reflective and solemn “Make It Home Alive” which sees him teaming up with Jake Isaac and together they embark on a journey through the unbeaten path as they chase their dreams respectively. The theme here is about trusting the process and their gut feeling even during the dark times. “The Weekend” is the first collaboration with instrumentalist Braxton Cook who adds his distinct touch on the pounding funk-soul backdrop while IAMTHELIVING implores us to relax and take time to smell the proverbial roses after a week filled with hustling and grinding. “Love So Divine” is a rich melody-driven love ballad that explores the essence of true love between two kindred spirits. It features vocalist Kitt who adds her silky vocal runs on the chorus and background vocals and Knomadic as well.

 

“Let’s Talk About It” is a heartfelt but vibrant track that dives into proper communication between lovers and the power of relying on each other by talking through their problems while the mellow and melancholy vibe of “Can’t Be Replaced” is pronounced in a cinematic manner as rues for a past love. “WaterSlide” has a head-nodding drum groove and an early 2000s neo-soul aesthetic reminiscent of Maxwell, Musiq Soulchild etc. The guitar licks are rich and prevalent and IAMTHELIVING’s commanding vocals are in tandem as he poura adulations on that special someone who completes him. “Light Me Up” begins with a soothing bluesy guitar arrangement with a dash of contemporary R&B/pop stylings. Here, he reflects on the power of uplifting interactions and pure unconditional love.

 

Notable tracks include “I’ll Get It Done” which showcases raw vulnerability and emotions, and the edgy rock-trap-soul infused “Open Space.” The emotive “Calloused Heart” comprises soft guitar licks and its’ underpinned by emotionally pained lyrics that explore the past and the difficulty of letting go while “Trust the Journey” brings back Braxton Cook, who laces him with a bass-driven groove to create a funk-laden celebratory tune.

 

The final track “Superhero” is an engaging storytelling tune that details IAMTHELIVING’s undying love for his mother and her invaluable teachings. The track explores their humble beginnings and the struggles she faced to give him the best upbringing a child could ever have. The track is quite touching and helps bring the album to full circle as audiences get the full picture of what makes IAMTHELIVING unique and different from everyone else.

 

Overall Nebra Sky, is a celebration of sorts. from the layered and genre-bending production to the relatable songwriting and soul-stirring vocal performances, lovers of modern neo-soul/funk will not be disappointed.