NEW ALBUM RELEASE: Yazmin Lacey's - "Voice Notes"

Yazmin Lacey's soulful jazz and R&B music blends introspective storytelling with themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, taking listeners on a journey through the complexities of modern life.

Words by Isla Mcrobbie

Yazmin Lacey is a Nottingham-based singer, who first gained attention in 2017 with the release of her debut EP, “Black Moon,” which was followed by two more EPs: “When the Sun Dips 90 Degrees,” “Morning Matters.”.

Musically, Lacey’s sound is a delicate balance of jazzy instrumentation and understated vocals, creating an atmosphere that’s both intimate and emotionally charged. Her voice is a force of nature, imbued with a depth of feeling and a rawness that’s reminiscent of jazz legends like Billie Holiday and Nina Simone, but she also incorporates elements of more contemporary R&B and soul singers such as Erykah Badu and Jill Scott.

Whether she’s exploring the joys and pitfalls of romantic love on tracks like “Not Today Mate” or delving into the complexities of modern existence on songs like “Own Your Own,” Lacey’s music is a testament to the power of vulnerability and honesty. With her debut album “Voice Notes,” released earlier this month, she’s established herself as a rising star in the world of Jazz, Soul and RNB.

The debut album begins with a conversational monologue, framed by the sounds of a multi-instrumental jazz band. The music is a vibrant, electric pulse that jolts the listener’s senses, transporting them to the front row of a live performance. It’s the kind of opening that immediately hooks you in, leaving you eager to hear what Yazmin has in store. Boasting several standout tracks that showcase her musical prowess. “Bad Company” features cleverly crafted lyrics with self-sabotaging metaphors, delivered with Yazmin’s soulful vocals that hit you right in the heart. “Pieces” is a tranquil soundscape, with lush melodies accompanied by harmonious instrumentals that transport you to a place of calm. And “Late Night People” is a lively and upbeat track that perfectly encapsulates the feeling of late-night revelry, complete with Yazmin’s introspective lyrics that make you think while you dance. These tracks are a testament to Yazmin’s talent as a musician and her ability to create music that resonates deeply with her audience. While every track on the album is a marvel in its own right, there is one that stands out among the rest like a shimmering gem: “Sea Glass.” This masterpiece is a tranquil escape, the final song on the album – it transports the listener to a world of serenity with its ethereal harp sounds that flow with effortless musical fluidity. Listening to it had a mesmerizing effect on me, leaving me in a peaceful silence that I rarely experience. And I was reluctant to let go of the album after the first listen, “Sea Glass” compelled me to hit the replay button and relive the enchantment of Voice Notes once again.

Yazmin Lacey is taking her soulful experience on a global tour, having recently played at South by Southwest (SXSW) as part of BBC Introducing’s showcase. With upcoming performances from Brazil to Tokyo, she’s poised to captivate audiences around the world. But if you’re based in the UK, you won’t have to travel far to catch Lacey in action. She’ll be gracing stages in London and Bristol later this year, giving fans plenty of opportunities to experience her live performances up close and personal. So whether you’re an avid follower or a newcomer to Lacey’s music, there’s never been a better time to discover the smoky soulful sound that’s taking the world by storm.

Listen to Yazmin Lacey here.

UPCOMING SHOWS

 

APRIL 20, 2023

Support at The Roundhouse

London, UK

 

MAY 28, 2023

Cross the Tracks Festival

London, UK

 

JUN 11, 2023

Gottwood Festival

Wales, UK

 

AUGUST 4, 2023

Good Vibrations Society

London, UK

 

AUGUST 10, 2023

We Out Here Festivak

London, UK

 

SEPTEMBER 1, 2023

Forwards festival

Bristol, UK

 

SEPTEMBER 2, 2023

The Clifton Downs

Bristol, UK