Akua

Synth-soul sister Akua Carson (AKUA) is all about keeping things minimalist — stripped down lyrics and an ethereal electro vibe. The Montreal-based (by way of London, ON) solo artist's latest "alt-R&B" One's Company EP travels on the familiar experimental wavelength of recent remote soul efforts from Rhye and Jessie Ware, but wholly unique enough to stand out on its own. Indeed, her production projects a fullness that feels like it's a multi-part band on stage with her, not just an accompanying percussionist. As a performer, she opted to let the music speak for itself. Cuts like "Gravity," "The Highway" and "Told You So" sound just as textured live as on the record; her silky vocals layered over a measured boom-bap made for a short but tight set. Crafting a unique electro R&B sound with thoughtful lyrics, singer-songwriter-instrumentalist AKUA is slotted firmly in the "one to watch" category.