Still

recogarden-script 21st April 2024 at 11:50am

This is Erika's third full-length. I've been a fan ever since the first: sensual, laid-back, groovy 90's-inspired r&b that oozes coolness. She's, in fact, really cool — Erika just wants to be doing her thing in Copenhagen, Denmark, riding the bikes, keeping us warm even in very cold climates. There was another record in the meantime — 2021's Sensational — confirming the style in sophomore efforts.

As Still came out, there were some complaints about sameness, reused melodies from previous work, etc. Arguably so – but Erika does not need to reinvent the wheel: this is her niche, she works it well. Why do something else just for the sake of experimentation? That's why we have Frank Zappa, too. And she's been busy alright: not only with her solo career, but also in actively contributing to one of last years' most viral hitsongs.

In any case, I highlight The Princess, bringing about an acoustic somberness that expands the electronic breakbeat frenzy, making room for quietness and matching the lyrics' vulnerability (even girl boss is heartbroken from time to time); in the same vein, Twice, collaborating with Dev Hynes (Blood Orange), and Someone. Maybe I'm tending towards the mellow myself.

TitleStill
AuthorErika de Casier
Year2024
Might also likeTirzah, PinkPantheress, Sade, of course BB/ANG3L