LOVE ARCH, 2023
Genre: Alternative R&B
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Reviewed: 20 December 2023
FELE (F.K.A Fele Mpini), the talented South African songstress, her debut album, "LOVE ARCH," showcasing a captivating fusion of Afro Pop, Alternative RnB, soul, and t
Zulu tribal influences. Hailing from Durban, KZN, FELE demonstrates her versatility and vocal prowess throughout the album.
While progressing through the album, I encountered a blend of emotions towards Fele's songs. Undoubtedly, her songwriting is skillful, yet it fails to make a lasting impact. Despite well-crafted lyrics, they often seem superficial, lacking the depth required for themes like the complexities of romantic relationships. Although one might interpret her songs as symbolic expressions of the lasting and transformative aspects of love, even this perspective falls short of creating a memorable impression.
FELE's artistry is marked by exquisite style and composition, showcasing her exceptional skills as a performer. While drawing inspiration from musical influences, she has crafted a distinctive sound. However, some may argue that her album lacks authenticity in representing her craft. Instead of a cohesive body of work highlighting her artistry, it appears more like a collection of her best experimental songs.
LOVE ARCH disappoints mainly due to its lack of cohesion and thoughtful sequencing in the tracklist. The album gives the impression of being on shuffle, lacking a clear direction or smooth flow between songs. Despite containing only 8 tracks and lasting 28 minutes, it's evident that FELE has the potential to create a more impactful and unified album.
Highlighted tracks showcasing her exceptional vocal skills include "Bloody & Blue," "Bad for You," "Out," and "SM." "Unkissed Girl" demonstrates her versatility, seamlessly blending Zulu elements in both production and delivery. The cinematic ambiance of "In The Eye" is accentuated by its clean production, beautiful buildup, and lyrical harmony with other elements.
In summary, LOVE ARCH by FELE, while featuring moments of beauty and skill, fails to make a lasting impression. Although there is undeniable talent and potential, the album seems like a missed opportunity to truly showcase her artistry. It is hoped that her future releases will demonstrate a refined craft, delivering a more cohesive and impactful body of work.
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