Jorja Smith's 'Falling or Flying' Soars to New Heights
A few artists can leave a mark like Jorja Smith has in the last few years. The British singer-songwriter, known for her soul-filled voice and brooding lyrics, has been captivating audiences worldwide since her debut EP "Project 11" in 2016. She had features with huge artists like Drake on his album, “More Life” in 2017. During this time she put out her most notable debut album “Lost and Found” in 2018. Now, with her sophomore album, 'Falling or Flying,' Jorja Smith continues to ascend and explore the intricate nuances of life and love. With this new album, Smith takes her listeners on an emotional journey, one that delves deep into the human experience. The album's title itself is a testament to the duality of life and the choices we make. It's a reflection of the delicate balance between taking risks and the fear of falling, a theme that runs through the album's 15 tracks.
From the very first notes of the opening track, “Try Me”, Jorja's powerful and emotive voice grips the listener, setting the tone for the album. The haunting drum patterns complement her voice, creating an atmosphere that invites you to immerse yourself in her world. 'Falling or Flying' isn't just an album; it's a collection of stories, each song a chapter in Jorja's life. She masterfully explores love and its complexities, touching on themes like heartbreak, self-discovery, and resilience. Tracks like “Try and Fit in” and “GO GO GO”, offer a sense of empowerment, as she reflects on past relationships with a newfound strength, and the pulsating beats and melodic hooks give a modern, contemporary genre-bending twist to her soulful sound.
The album's standout track, “Little Things,” is a jungle-fusion song that showcases Jorja's vocal strength, production and lyrical depth. The drum patterns matched with the vulnerability in her voice are concrete with conviction as she explores the feeling of being in love and lust, yet allowing life to run its course. It's a testament to her ability to connect with her audience on a deeply emotional level. This album is not just a solo venture like ‘Lost & Found; Smith collaborates with a roster of talented artists, adding unique layers to the album. “Feelings” featuring J Hus is a provocative consideration of leaving a relationship but falling for another. Meanwhile, “Greatest Gift” with Lila Ikè combines two powerful female voices, creating a soulful reggae anthem that lingers in the mind long after the last note.
The production quality of the album is top-notch, with a seamless blend of various musical styles, from soul and R&B to hip-hop, pop-punk and electronic, jungle drum and bass elements. This diversity this album offers allows Smith's music to transcend genres, making it accessible to a wide range of listeners. Jorja Smith's growth as an artist is evident throughout this album. She has come into her own, embracing her unique style and infusing it with an unapologetic authenticity. The album is a testament to her journey as an artist and as a person, navigating the ups and downs of life and love.
'Falling or Flying' is not just an album; it's a masterpiece of modern soul and R&B, a testament to Jorja Smith's talent and artistry. With this release, she solidifies her place in the music industry as a true force to be reckoned with. Her voice is a beacon of raw emotion and her lyrics are a mirror reflecting the intricacies of life, love, and the human experience. As Jorja Smith takes flight with 'Falling or Flying,' she invites us to accompany her on a journey through the depths of the heart and soul. It's an album that will resonate with listeners for years to come, a timeless work of art that stands as a testament to the power of music in expressing the complexities of the human experience.
