REVIEW: Jorja Smith reveals stunning brand new project 'Be Right Back'
Author: Tom Dingley | Friday 14th May 2021
Jorja Smith reveals her brand new project 'Be Right Back', and it is stunning.
The 8-track project is the first since Jorja released her critically-acclaimed, Mercury Prize nominated, debut album 'Lost & Found'. Her debut earned her her second BRIT award for best female, and also a GRAMMY nomination for New Artist.
Production on 'Be Right Back' is a key part of the project's excellence, as it sounds very stripped back – with less elements to distract from Jorja's incredible vocal abilities. This is highlighted most of tracks like 'Time' and 'Weekend'. With string heavy sounds, Jorja has the freedom to express clearly on every track. And she does this with pure emotion and soaring vocals.
Speaking on the title of the project back when it was announced, Jorja said “It’s called be right back because it’s just something I want my fans to have right now, this isn’t an album and these songs wouldn’t have made it. If I needed to make these songs, then someone needs to hear them too.”
Over the past three years, Jorja Smith has become one of the most highly praised artists across the world for her relatable songwriting skills; and stunning songs as a result. 'Be Right Back' is another reason for fans to fall in love her with the singer and her music. Each song is delivered with such rawness and transparency that listeners can connect with the artist – right at the emotion she felt when writing the songs.
From start to finish, the project is breathtaking. Within the 8-tracks we see only one feature artist, Shaybo, who makes an excellent contribution on 'Bussdown'. The track is slightly different to what we are used to from the rapper as we see her add in vocals of her own for good measure, all adding to its pleasant surprise.
The standout track is 'Time' purely for the way the minimalistic beat allows Jorja's stunning vocals to shine the most. It is the most stripped back production-wise, yet the poeticism of her lyrics are testament to her ability to capture tender sentiments in words.
Overall, 'Be Right Back' is exactly what fans have been longing for from a Jorja Smith project. Her talent is showcased from start to finish. Considering this is a project made of songs that couldn't make the album, it builds very high anticipation for what to expect from the next album release. Because these tracks sound extremely album-worthy.
'Be Right Back' is available to buy and stream now on digital platforms.