For her RCA Records debut, the Oakland singer songwriter Samaria returns with a stronger sound and a more in-tune spirit.
2024 has already started with a bang with a number of musical projects from high-level figures coming out of the woodworks, but amongst the waters of releases, comes Bay Area legend in the making- and new RCA Records signee- Samaria ready to make waves with her new E.P: Even Paradise Rains
Even Paradise Rains is the singer's first on the label, and showcases the extent of Samaria's range, from her Oakland-inspired infectious instrumentals and prowess in lyricism. Despite being an ambitious reintroduction to a larger audience, Samaria’s project is the singer finding her legs and solidifying a sound.
Born and raised in the heart of Northern California, Samaria has always been a fan of traditional R&B. Coupled with living in a city when it had the widest range of influence on popular music, the alternative singer came from a sonically rich background that shows in her music. From the bedroom to RCA, Samaria has always been genuine with her music, taking time to hone in on beats that are reminiscent of Friday block parties and late night food escapades as well as a love for poetry.
Even Paradise Rains is the singer finding her footing. Her first official release of the new decade is also her first with a major label, a pressuring factor. But after a year of crafting and a handful of singles, the e.p is here and Samaria is ready to show the same side to herself, in a new light.
Fans anew, like myself, and fans who have been rocking since Adventures of Lovergirl can expect to revel in the singer's refreshing take on alternative R&B, challenging herself to experiment more with string instruments in the instrumentals and new vocal harmonies.
The project starts with a skit, one that represents where Samaria’s been mentally, and physically. Working through the bitter endings of past relationships, and enjoying the healing force of a beach. It’s immediately followed by “3 Rings”, a track that showcases Samarias aptitude in wordplay, besides traditional vocal work. The middle of the project is the three track run that really shines the brightest. “Serial recluse” and “wish you well” provide vividly colorful yet dark instrumentals that perfectly match Samaria’s lyrics tackling broken relationships and the dreaded journey of self discography. These two shouldn’t come to any surprise when you learn they were produced by the famed Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins.
From producing in her bedroom to signing with RCA, Samaria has always dedicated her music to healing and exploring her own issues dealing with self worth and although she’s entering a vivid new stage of her professional career, Samarias sound is still in touch to her original days writing about heart break by people who didn’t even love themselves.
Where the project is carried by ambitious beats and relatable storytelling, Samaria’s vocal performance and disjointed concept makes for a strong reintroduction to the masses, but there’s more potential to be uncovered. No matter her mental state, Samaria’s music is and will always be a tool in growing.
