Jordan Mackampa builds on stunning debut album with new EP Come Around
- by Joe Sharratt
- in Reviews
Jordan Mackampa released his debut album Foreigner last year to critical acclaim. The singer-songwriter, who was raised Coventry, is based in London, and draws on his Congolese roots to create his deeply poetic songs delivered in his distinctive rich vocals, delivered a deeply personal affair with his debut full-length offering, with songs covering topics such as his childhood, his journey into adulthood, and falling in and out of love.
Sonically, Mackampa crafts soul-infused indie numbers that demand attention. He admits to being given a love of the great soul singers – Marvin Gaye, Bill Withers and Curtis Mayfield – from his mother, and he carries these influences into his music. And that’s still the case on his new four-track EP, Come Around.
Opening track Alibi is a delightful opener, a soft, warm number that meanders through a smart narrative constructed by Mackampa (“My alibi / She walked into my life / And started up a riot / Of colour and fire”), and is occasionally lit up by wonderful little horn flourishes. Over & Out meanwhile is a far funkier affair, a breezy vocal skimming over a punchy bass line and captivating drum rhythm to glorious effect.
Marks is a strong contender for the best track here, combining acoustic and electric guitar elements over a looping drum line. It’s the track on which Mackampa’s incredible vocals perhaps shine best, and he succeeds in conjuring a real sense of place with his lyrics (“Shared little moments / Drenched in candlelight / And with the scent of the roses / The wax will expose our tired eyes”).
Peace By Piece closes out the EP and is another confident number, with a quicker pace that sees Mackampa assert “Mama didn’t raise no quitter / So I’m not gonna lose”. With sold out shows across London, more than thirty millions teams across multiple online platforms, and support from the likes of NME, Wonderland, Clash, Mahogany and The Line Of Best Fit, Mackampa is winning over fans.
This new EP only adds to that forward momentum. It builds on the success of Foreigner, and should open up Mackampa and his music to an even wider audience.
Come Around tracklist:
1. Alibi
2. Over & Out
3. Marks
4. Peace By Piece
Listen to the official audio for Over & Out here.
Find out more about Jordan Mackampa on his official website.
