Earlier this week, multi-dimensional artist Jaydabliu blessed us with his debut project, Square One. The 7 track project is an alternative, soulful listen that oozes feel-good and oft-hypnotic vibes.

The project’s opener, We’ve Come So Far, is an ethereal intro. The track opens with a ticking clock that remains constant throughout, a clever reference to the songs message which is appreciating how far you’ve progressed over time. Beautifully layered harmonies follow, giving an angelic air to the track whilst a repeating walking bass-line and familiar drum pattern add groove. This song sets the perfect tone for the rest of the project. Oh Yea featuring Marushka is a funky, laid-back offering. The tracks easy-going nature compliments it’s nonchalant lyrics (“I don’t have a regret… you can go your way”) whilst the attention to smaller details, such as the panning of Jaydabliu’s vocables to bounce from ear to ear, and his artful infusion of trumpet patterns, add more colour to the track and give it a fuller sound.

Song three, Just For A While featuring Lisa Oduor-Noah, is a magical neo-soul number. The underlying rich bass-line is the perfect conduit to carry Lisa’s soulful voice. The songs message of allowing yourself and letting go is craftily conveyed in the songs sonic arrangement; through the hazy layering of Lisa’s vocals and the selection of where they sit in the track, particularly during the hook, create an enchanting effect that make you feel free to let go of your inhibitions.

Wacha Nichill Kiasi, a head-bopping hip hop track, is a point of contrast on the project. One of my favourite aspects of this song is it’s relatability. Jaydabliu raps about taking a much needed break from a stressful day or society in general. He wraps this message in light-hearted lyrics as his witty wordplay takes the spotlight and is carried by a woozy, bouncy track that invokes smoke-up hour.  

Who U R is a glittery, bass driven, feel-good song. Taio’s bars and steady cadence add seasoning to the tracks woozy, funky, wobbly synths. Rainy Daze, the projects penultimate track, is a bouncy reminder to “Keep your head up high and dance through the rainy days”. The songs upbeat, beat-driven nature perfectly match it’s message whilst the trumpet riffs are the perfect seasoning.

The EP’s final song, Lovin’ Life, is the stand out for me. Woozy, hypnotic synths take centre stage as the song steadily crescendo’s into a disco inspired track – close your eyes and allow yourself to be transported to a dance-floor surrounded by throbbing fluorescent lights when you give it a listen.

Jaydabliu’s approach is minimalistic; he utilizes the same set of instrumental elements throughout the EP and leans on lyrical repetition. This creates a cozy sense of familiarity for listeners and this sense that when you experience the project, you’re not meant to think too much when you listen, instead enough room is left for you to feel the music.

All in all, Square One is a worthwhile 22 minute listen. Check it out here.