Auckland, New Zealand-raised Kenyan singer/songwriter Auds. brings a refreshing take on modern contemporary pop music with a blend of jazz-soul and blues-inspired elements. Her latest release Asleep At Sea, is a three-track EP that traverses her intimate experiences from the perspective of a young woman finding her footing. From the complexities of human emotions, their fleeting nature, and the emotional pain that comes with change, Auds. takes audiences through the highs and lows with intricate and lucid storytelling and a powerful vocal that stirs the air with each note weighed down by weary emotions.
The first track "Drunk Dialing" sets the tone with its live performance feel. The vocals are raw and pronounced and engulf the stripped-down backdrop. The bassline punctuates the vocal runs and the slow build-up adds an extra layer of emotion as Auds' vocals rise. The lyrics are unapologetic and explore the uncontrolled feelings for that special someone and the act of losing composure within love. The end part is particularly gripping as her vocals reach a plateau and the pain reaches fever pitch as she comes to terms with the reality of the situation. "Strangers" dives into the complexities of human interaction and the complexities of building and maintaining relationships. Once again, the stripped-down backdrop adds to the emotional aesthetic. The pulsating bassline is rich and the percussion accompaniment all combine to create an atmospheric and surreal ambiance. The overall arrangement is quite dynamic as well and when the main drums come into play, Auds.' vocals soar to the peak as she pours out her heart after experiencing heartbreak and the feeling of a loved one turned stranger burns at her soul. The final track "Junk Drawer" is anchored on a bright guitar riff underpinned by Auds' gritty vocals. Her vocal arrangement is something to note as well, she keeps it raw and the lively element shines through. The storytelling is vivid, rich, and layered as she takes us through a rollercoaster of emotions. From the butterfly in the stomach stage to the ongoing trepidations to cracks in the relationship and ultimately the total breakdown now all that is left are memories in the proverbial junk drawer.
Asleep At Sea EP might be brief but it packs quite a lot and offers audiences a different perspective on relatable topics surrounding self-love, toxic relationship and the concept of change and moving on.
Connect with Auds. : Soundcloud | TikTok| Instagram
