London based producer and composer Loraine James has released a new album called Reflection which is out now via Hyperdub Records. According to the press release, it is a turbulent expression of inner-space, laid out in unflinching honesty, also offering gentle empathy and bitter-sweet hope.
2020 was tough for Loraine; unable to tour and build on the success of ‘For You And I’, she was prolific in the studio, self-releasing, plus releasing the acclaimed stepping-stone ‘Nothing’ EP for Hyperdub, which realised a unique pop sensibility that she develops more here. Her 2020 listening habits – drill and R&B – seep through into ‘Reflection’ too. In contrast to the brash splashes of ‘For You And I’ and the grimy anger of ‘Nothing’, ‘Reflection’ is paired down and confident, taking the listener through how the year felt for a young black queer woman and her acolytes, in a world that suddenly stopped moving.
The arc of the album is peppered with Loraine’s diaristic confessions which switch the narrative and mood. ‘Simple Stuff’ is about out of reach equal rights, ‘Self Doubt’ flexes her insecurity about playing on stage and ‘Reflection’ is dejected and lonely. In contrast ‘Change’ slowly faces up to the crisis. Her selection of guests support, amplify, reflect and soothe, whilst instrumental passages express unspoken moods.
Check the full streaming below.