Tag Archives: Cleo Sol

May 01 2025
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Etta Bond – Make Me Cry

One of the most unique talents out of the UK, the beautiful singer/songwriter Etta Bond is one of the pioneers, a prominent talent who stood out early with her unconventional style. Similar to soulful acts like Cleo Sol and Bluey Robinson, the artistry found itself falling behind in what was a transitional period for the music industry, none the less her distinct tone and authenticity cut through and fast forward, as the natural talents rightfully progress, with the likes of Cleo, Jorja Smith and newcomer Kwn, Etta Bond is definitely one deserving to shine. Having teased fans with 2023’s A1, Lie To Me and the introspective (and a personal favourite) Zone, she returns with another two quality tracks, Let Me See Your Phone and the latest release, Make Me Cry

Let Me See Your Phone, is classic Etta, sultry, enchanting and captivating, with longtime producer Raf Riley, it’s a slow and soulful number, her vocals like an additional instrument, taking centre stage as she croons with a perfect balance of confidence and vulnerability. As great as her voice is, her lyricism is heavily underrated and this track emphasises that songwriting ability. Which brings us to the more uptempo offering, Make Me Cry

This is exactly why fans have been craving for an album from her, these contrasting sounds like ranges of feelings are what make artists special and she does this effortlessly. With it’s catchy drums, she’s able to match it’s infectiousness and deliver an emotionally strong and sexy effort. It definitely reminds me of a particular song from the past and though it must be from a while back as I can’t seem to remember, I’m thinking Justin Timberlake or Beyonce maybe, but that merely highlights the level of quality of this song. Credit to Raf Riley, once again creating a perfect canvas for Etta to vocally paint across and being able to delve into these real subjects so organically further champion why she’s so underrated to me.

Like Let Me See Your Phone, Make Me Cry is another step in the right direction for the songstress and hopefully will be part of a full length project in the near future, giving us a greater sample of her artistry, with her blend of innovative, relatable and honest music.

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Apr 18 2025
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Kwn – Do What I Say

R&B/Soul tends to find itself in the background, despite it’s DNA being present in the majority of genres and though the likes of PartyNextDoor and Ye Ali have helped its resurgence, it’s still not as prevalent as deserved and none more so than in the UK. The country has had a rich history from the likes of Lynden David Hall, Damage, Fun*mental and more recently Bluey Robinson and Daley. However, as acts like Cleo Sol, Jorja Smith, Mahalia and Raye help lead the culture to the forefront, the talent plus marketability has the industry seeing the value again, with none more so than London’s own, Kwn (pronounced Kay-wuhn)

The signs have been there, her 2022 release Episode Wn EP showcased her distinct tone, production choice and songwriting ability, exploring her versatility through experimentation as she developed her sound, which comes together on the personal favourite Wn Way Or Another. Couple years later, after songs like Eyes Wide Open continue to shape her artistry, she appears on Kehlani’s While We Wait 2 project and earlier this year, the Oakland superstar returns the favour, appearing on the remix for Worst Behaviour, noticeably garnering her more attention and though I came across it, it did not strike me the same way as when I randomly see a promo clip of her latest single. There was something about the vocality that caught me, a unique cadence that despite the lyrics maybe not even being for me, just further emphasised her ability as a songwriter to make it so catchy over the infectious production, you can’t help but sing along to the perfect blend of modern R&B infused with the classic elements. Much like Leon Thomas’ Mutt, Do What I Say is such an unconventional “hit”, (imagine her stepping out to this at like Wireless fest, or any live show for that matter), but thats what makes it so captivating and will capitalise greatly on her new found limelight.

Her identity is such a strength, as few acts can evoke such dominance and vulnerability in this space so naturally, Chris Brown being one, which puts Kwn in great company as she continues upon what can only be a fruitful career on an upward trajectory (as we await the new project), which is obviously good for the artist, but also R&B overall and I can’t help but be proud that its out of the UK.

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May 07 2009
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Music

DaVinChe – Riding For Love ft. Cleo Sol & Bashy

Considered by many as the country’s best producer, DaVinChe offers us yet another anthem with Riding For Love.

Featuring Cleo Sol & Bashy, Riding For Love is set to be a smash if not justify DaVinChe’s position at the top, Cleo Sol (as heard on Tinie Tempah – Tears) is another talent on the rise and really puts her twist on his track, her voice has a presence and really makes the song her own in a way, Bashy provides a charismatic verse that touches the subject whilst being light-hearted, it fits the song well. After hearing Riding For Love, I am looking forward to hearing more from DaVinChe.

Fáris Rating:
8/10

Along with Riding For Love, DaVinChe has another version, another anthem but this time for the streets.

Rider ft. Keedo, Steelo, Ghetts & JME:

Personally, Ghetts stole the show with his verse, which to be honest is expected from one of the best the UK has to offer, Keedo was impressive with a sharp flow and witty rhyme, JME delivered as always and helped round the track up nicely, I feel that the beat has not been fully justified but none the less it is a good blend of artists and will no doubt be well received.

Fáris Rating:
7.5/10

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