“Ever Since You Went Away” helps open the 4 track project on a solemn note. Kianja describes the aftermath of being separated from that special someone who has always been a supporting pillar in her life. Lines like “You are the feather on my wings/Don’t know if I will ever fly again/When I need a saviour you were my angel in disguise” help paint the picture clearly but in the end, she finally found the strength to move on and stand on her 10 toes. The track is brimming with warm and soulful textures spread over hushed grooves all underpinned by Kianja’s mellow and soothing melodic vocals. “Fear” switches the mood with its reggae-dub groove, slick guitar riffs, melancholic strings, and moody basslines. here, Kianja dives into the concept of fear and how it can ultimately cripple you if you don’t take control of it. The uplifting message is once again accentuated by the dynamic production and the seamless blend of dub elements with R&B/soul aesthetics. Kianja sure sounds at home here and delivers a solid performance that showcases her versatility to the fullest.
This is followed by the previously released single “Leave Me Behind”, a soulful ballad that is ripe with a warm Fender Rhodes, and a soulful bassline, while KIANJA’s rich vocal textures and heartfelt songwriting take precedence. The singer explores the dynamics of age differences in relationships and the ups and downs that come with it. Far from being a sob story, it’s more of reflection and deep thinking of navigating the murky waters of loving an older individual and being confident in one’s abilities instead of trying to play catch up all the time. The final track “Lost In You” closes the project on a high note as KIANJA delivers a vibrant and somewhat playful performance ripe with vigour and rich songwriting. She details her aha moment after being heartbroken by a scheming lover who hoodwinked her under the guise of love. Again, KIANJA delivers the goods in the way she singlehandedly carries the Motown-inspired track made up of rousing drum grooves and nostalgia-inducing layered textures
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