“Without”- Sampha
The soothing wobble of London-native Sampha Sisay’s voice has become increasingly commonplace in the last few years, comfortably moving through tracks by SBTRKT, Jessie Ware, and most recently Drake in the unrequited cut “The Motion.” The stereo-panning electronic pings and drum-machine pops blend with the more human drum work to create a crisp if somewhat jarring listen. The lyrics too are a study in contrast, Sampha’s timorous voice searching for love one moment and patiently waiting the next. Work this engrossed in contrast isn’t an easy sell, but when it’s delivered with this much clarity and confidence, it’s easier to buy into.
You can listen to “Without” here, and look for Dual, his forthcoming debut EP to July 29 via Young Turks.