Sampha

According to UK singer/producer Sampha, the title of his debut EP, Dual, is partially inspired by the mixed signals, or "duality," people evoke when they tell someone they're fine, but feel the exact opposite. This theme is carried throughout, as the EP is filled to the brim with six soulful tracks that recount feelings of loss and miscommunication, spilling over from one song to the next. Looking to venture out from his role as go-to collaborator for acts like Drake, SBTRKT and Jessie Ware, the EP solely focuses on the singer's emotionally charged, rich-sounding vocals. Each song Sampha covers with a coat of warm analogue sounds and a sense of nostalgia, while addressing his inner demons and insecurities. Unfortunately, the record does have its drawbacks. Tracks like "Indecision" and "Can't Get Close" feature lengthy, repetitive bridges that expose Sampha's discomfort with being the main attraction. Sampha pleads on Dual's final moments, "Let it all work out," and if his first offering is any indication of what's to come from the singer, things will turn out just fine.