Review by Adam Jones - MUSIC FARMER 5
KoKo Kennedy Takes Listeners on a Nostalgic-Yet-Fresh Soul Odyssey
In a world where music trends are changing by the minute, it is a breath of fresh air to encounter an artist who embraces the timeless charm of yesteryears. Enter KoKo Kennedy, the Los Angeles native who has been singing her entire life, and who is now redefining the modern soul scene with her latest EP, "KOTOWN." Inspired by the golden era of Motown, this magical collection of songs transports listeners to a realm where old soul and contemporary soundscapes collide, creating a perfectly enchanting retro experience.
From the moment "Intro - Magenta" begins, we are immersed in KoKo's world of epic, magical vocal harmonies that instantly captivate our senses. The vocal harmony-hook then segues into a heady blend of fresh-sounding guitars, powerful drums, and groovy funk-style bass that hooks me right away. Kennedy's unique approach to infusing old soul with modern sound is evident throughout the EP, as she weaves together her smooth vocals and live instrumentation in a seamless, mesmerizing fashion.
One of the standout tracks on "KOTOWN" is "TheLoveAbove," which boasts yet another gorgeous vocal harmony intro that feels even more spiritual than its predecessor. The song is romantic, sultry, yet impassioned, with a beautiful bass guitar performance that complements KoKo's heavenly vocal delivery. This soulful ode to love showcases Kennedy's profound appreciation for the classic sounds of the '50s, '60s, and '70s, which she has been enamored with since her childhood days spent listening to her uncle's music collection.
My favorite track off the album is "July 26 (feat. Uriel the Light)," a gritty, head-banging anthem that features extremely catchy vocal hooks and experimental vocal motifs. This track is a sonic journey that truly encapsulates the feeling of "Love in the Breeze," as the lyrics describe, with a musical painting that enables listeners able to visualize the colors generated by the music's interplay.
