IN FOCUS: Daniela Andrade
This week, we’ve been seeking soulful R&B and we’ve found it with Daniela Andrade.
The Honduran-Canadian artist has wowed us with her eclectic blend of R&B, indie and soul. Her new EP, Tamale, showcases her soft, luscious vocals on a series of melodic tracks that immediately create a warm and cosy ambiance. Co-produced by Gray Rowan (Charlotte Day Wilson), these eight tracks show much promise from this experimental musician.
Stand-out track “Tamale” evokes feelings of escape and solace, with a self-love slant. Andrade draws heavily from the roots and traditions of her South American heritage, referencing tamales and brewing pots, and ‘cinnamon horchata coolin’. Repetitions of ‘woman’ act almost as a religious affirmation to her femininity, with references to the curly hair and blooming leaves both an acceptance and celebration of her being.
“Lost in Translation” is a sombre record that grips you throughout its 3-minute duration, with Andrade seamlessly switching from English into Spanish. Her pleas, ‘Escucha si te quiero aquí / Sabes, you know where I’m gonna be’ are almost whispered, an admission that reaches a resignatory tone of being unable to fight against her feelings with ‘No quiero resistir’. Possibly the most minimalist of the EP, it’s this track that says much by saying very little.
“Ayayai” has potential to be the EP’s biggest break-out song. Sang entirely in Spanish, Andrade’s lyricism has a delicacy and sensuality that is utterly enthralling. Based on the feeling of looking at someone from across a room and that initial attraction coupled with a fear of the unknown, its sound evokes a heady giddiness.
Love, desire and longing are woven in with experiences of isolation, disconnect and instability, with Andrade’s addictive voice beckoning us all to listen.
For more information on Daniela Andrade, check out her Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
Words: Mireille Cassandra Harper