After a hiatus, London-based singer-songwriter Joshy Connor returns to the music scene with his latest release, Love Unknown. The album, born from a collection of poems written during his break, showcases an intricate blend of genres and styles, anchored by his compelling vocals and songwriting prowess. This genre-defying journey that primarily rests within the indie-folk realm but frequently ventures into neo-soul, R&B, and electronic territories. The album’s diversity is evident from the opening track ‘Ten’, which embraces indie-folk elements, showcasing Connor‘s knack for melody and lyrical depth.
While the album stretches over eleven tracks, we’ve selected our favourite ones to dig deeper into. The previously released single, ‘Wild’ is a track that stands out with its R&B and neo-soul influences, especially the groove and funk elements here are a refreshing departure from the softer folk sounds. Another one not to miss is ‘Lighthouse’ with a rich neo-soul vibe, featuring syncopated rhythms and sub-bass lines that interplay beautifully with the artist’s impressive guitar work and expressive vocals. ‘I Have Waited’ marks a return to the songwriter’s signature folk roots, characterized by warm, nostalgic melodies and emotionally charged lyrics. Extending the folky tones is ‘Truth’, featuring complex percussion and electronic elements, it marries folk guitar riffs with modern production. For those seeking a softer notes, ‘North’ highlights Connor‘s poignant lyrics and delicate guitar lines, showcasing his emotive vocal delivery.
It’s evident that Joshy Connor‘s vocal performance is a consistent thread throughout the album, providing a grounding force regardless of the genre he explores. His voice, rich and emotive, perfect for relaying lyrics, initially conceived as poem. These are full of introspection and narrative depth to the songs, exploring themes of love, loss, and family life. The production of Love Unknown focuses on simplicity and clarity, allowing the intricacies of Connor‘s songwriting to shine through. Collaborators Murillo Sguillaro and Seb Kellig contribute to the album’s polished yet understated sound. The production enhances the organic feel of the music while incorporating modern elements seamlessly.
Ultimately, Love Unknown is a triumphant return for Joshy Connor. The thoughtful composition and genre-blending tracks offer something for everyone, making it a must-listen for fans of indie-folk and beyond.
You can also find album track ‘Wild’ in our Folk This Way playlist.
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