IDM, ambient, math rock, drill, R&B, jazz, techno, club. If someone were to throw this list at you, chances are, finding links between all or any of these genres would be testing. To my delighted surprise, London-based producer Loraine James has created a space for all of these genres to co-exist, continuously pushing their stylistic boundaries. Over the past 5 years James has been tailoring her unique sound, receiving not only praise but awe from the industry. The Guardian labeled her a “genre-splicing genius”, while MixMag said the London composer is creating “sounds that seem impossible”. Lorraine James does all this while using her music as a vehicle to discuss anxiety, self-confidence, and her experience as a young, queer woman.

Earlier this month James brought listeners a brand new single titled ‘Déjà Vu’. The track sports her signature distorted breaks and ambient IDM, but switches in and out of a melodic R&B fusion, reminiscent of Smino and bLAck pARty. James also welcomes RiTchie onto the track (⅓ of Arizona rap group Injury Reserve), rapping with his serene cadence that brings a confident soul to the record. These R&B moments harmoniously blend RiTchie’s own style into James’ chaotically calculated production.

On first listen, I thought the track felt like the perfect car tune. It seems I got the right idea as James pairs the track with visuals of the vocalist RiTchie, on a pensive car journey observing the exterior, and delivering his lyrics with a sure tranquility.

Lorraine James’ recent 2023 singles, ‘2003’ and ‘Déjà Vu’, come alongside the announcement of her new album ‘Gentle Confrontation’, out 22 September.

A list of her 2023 shows can be found on her bandcamp.