Noraa – Twenty Two [EP]

The sophomore EP from singer-songwriter Noraa, titled Twenty Two, is an aural treasure chest of soothing nu-soul brilliance that that explores the intersection of soul music, jazz, and folksy pop. Its five songs about the ups and downs of love are sure to take listeners on an emotional journey that they won’t want to leave . The EP opens with the track “Matter of Time,” an easygoing groove that floats Noraa’s soulful and tender vocals through an 80’s-tinted soundscape that feels like a summer breeze. The song’s laid-back vibe is perfect for relaxing in the shade on a summer’s day, but it also leaves plenty of room for the listener to connect with Noraa’s lyrics about looking back on the past and getting lost in sweet memories.

The second track, “Not Available“, is all about recognizing that your not quite over a past relationship and that the idea of jumping into a new love affair isn’t something you’re ready for just yet. The song’s breezy guitar riffs (provided by producer/arranger deathbypeanuts) and Noraa‘s angelic vocals create a feeling that the singer is trying to let someone down easy before they get hurt. The song is sweet and kind, but it’s also honest about how you can’t force yourself to rush into a new relationship when you’re still not over the old one. The third track, “Somebody Else“, is a ballady R&B duet that features Noraa and guest vocalist MERON harmonizing about relationship that isn’t quite right but hard to let go. The song is beautifully heartbreaking with both singer’s tender vocals melting into each other and the song’s bittersweet lyrics about trying to move on from a relationship that still has you tied up in knots.

Cozy acoustic-soul number “Sweet Summer Dreams” and its clubby electro-soul remix is a soothing and romantic number that closes out the EP. The former creates a tender and sensual atmosphere that ranks right up there with memorable gems from Sade and Maxwell as a romantic, laid-back track that’s perfect for cuddling up on the couch with your lover. The remix, which features production and rhymes from TTeo and ADH, is more upbeat and danceable, but still just as sweet, with its bouncy beats and funkier feel. Both versions are awash in lush instrumentation and dreamy vocals but the remix is a delightful burst of summery energy that brings the album to a close on a high note.

In the end, Twenty Two is a fantastic album from this talented singer-songwriter and an excellent expansion of Noraa‘s signature blend of R&B and earthy indie pop. Every track brings something new to the table while staying true to her familiar and endearing and enchanting style.

You can show your support by streaming the EP on your favorite digital music spot below as well as check out more from Noraa by visiting the links listed.

Stream & buy Noraa’s music on…
( Amazon | Apple_Music | Bandcamp | Deezer | Spotify | Tidal | YouTube_Music )

Connect with Noraa on…
( Facebook | Instagram | Official_Site | Soundcloud | Twitter | YouTube )