Description
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Loraine James explores her diverse influences on her third album for Hyperdub, ‘Gentle Confrontation’, tapping into the sounds of DNTEL, Telefon Tel Aviv, and Lusine, while delving deep into her emotional core. The album features guest appearances from Marina Herlop, keiyaA, Corey Mastrangelo, Eden Samara, George Riley, and Contour, adding an extra layer of depth to James’ introspective journey.
The album opens with “2003”, a deeply personal track that serves as a tribute to James’ late father. With delicate vocals layered over dreamy harmonies, James sets the tone for the rest of the album. ‘Gentle Confrontation’ is a collection of songs that James feels she should have written as a teenager, drawing inspiration from the emotronica and math rock of the early 2000s. By sampling artists such as DNTEL, Baths, and Lusine, James pays homage to her musical heroes while infusing her own contemporary twists and turns.
Drawing from DNTEL’s landmark album ‘Life is Full of Possibilities’, James incorporates the use of guest vocalists to add new dimensions to her sound. Collaborating with artists like keiyaA and Marina Herlop, James creates a celestial atmosphere that complements her intricate beats and textured production. The hauntingly beautiful ‘While They Were Singing’ features Herlop’s ethereal whispers, providing a counterbalance to James’ percussion and calming tones. Similarly, Eden Samara lends her pop sensibilities to ‘Try For Me’, following her standout performance on James’ previous album, ‘Reflection’.
At its core, ‘Gentle Confrontation’ is an exploration of James’ inner world, with tracks like ‘Speechless’ and ‘Cards with the Grandparents’ offering intimate glimpses into her personal fantasies and reflections. On ‘Speechless’, James immerses herself in an Aaliyah-esque soundscape, where her rhythms glide through deep waters while George Riley adds a touch of soulful lyricism. ‘Cards with the Grandparents’ finds James opening up about her personal truths through spoken word and singing, accompanied by evocative field recordings and abstract beats.
With each release, Loraine James invites us further into her artistic vision, and ‘Gentle Confrontation’ serves as a testament to her growth and creativity. By weaving her influences together and collaborating with a talented lineup of guest artists, James creates a rich tapestry of emotive electronic music that leaves a lasting impression. For fans of DNTEL, Telefon Tel Aviv, and Lusine, this album is a must-listen, showcasing James’ unique perspective and talent.
