Latest posts by Dahlia Saenz
(see all)Alex Isely’s fifth musical project has arrived, this time taking shape as an inquisitive probe into love and its challenges. From the uncertainty in “Holding On” to the self-assured farewell in “Thank You for a Lovely Time,” WHEN covers the many facets of a complex relationship. Isely tenderly employs her dynamic vocal style in the recounting of situationship-like tropes against swanky piano arrangements that reinforce this “in-between” territory lovers often endure.
Although this work ventures through some shaky lyrical territory, it marks a solid shift in Alex Isely’s career. This project marks her first creative effort delivered through Warner’s Free Lunch Agency. Being one of the first artists represented by the new label, and considering most of her previous projects have been self-released, Alex lays all her cards on the table.
This project opens with the ambiently soulful track “Holding On,” which sets listeners down a nebulous soundscape, guided by a cascadingly descending piano melody. Transitioning out of the track’s other-worldly start, arpeggiated harp chords beam into the first verse and angelically cradle each tone and hue that colors her voice.
The ease with which Isely sustains pitch and softly echoes harmonies can be attributed to several elements of her life story. She was surrounded by music her entire life as the daughter of Ernie Isely, one The Isely Brothers’ songwriters and musicians, and earned her high school diploma from a performing arts school in L.A. Isley went on to study jazz at UCLA. Becoming a striking voice in neo-soul and R&B was not accidental for Isely, it is a combination of blood, sweat, tears, and perhaps destiny. But don’t take my word for it, experience the subtleties and nuances in the cadence of her voice below:
Even the rawness of a Tiny Desk Concert does not compete with her vocal presence. In this performance, she fills the infamous office corner with pure soul… leaving audiences begging for more. So, Alex, WHEN, when do we get a full length album of these buttery silk melodies?