I couldn’t stop listening to this track all weekend since it dropped. It’s now my office soundtrack too. Jalen N’Gonda has absolutely nailed it.
From Wheaton, Maryland but based in Liverpool, N’Gonda has quickly established himself as one of the brightest talents around the city. Something only further highlighted here by absolute jam – ‘I Guess That Makes Me A Loser‘.
On the title alone you’d expect downbeat and sad. That’s not Jalen’s style. He’d rather dance his blues all away. IGTMMAL is a lovely and insanely catchy example of the distinct sound he’s crafted for himself from a blend of classic and contempary influences – both soul and further afield. Names cited range from Marvin Gaye, Brian Wilson and Phil Spector to Lianne La Havas, Alex Turner and Angel Olsen with many inbetween.
Clearly the standout here is Jalen’s simply stunning delivery. He possesses such a rich, nuanced voice that’s soulfully smooth and so easy to listen to, making this track an easily repeatable jam.
There’s an EP on the way this summer to coincide with a batch of live dates. Keep an eye and ear open and dance yourself dizzy to this groove in the meantime. This BBC Introducing live video is well worth your time too.
We Close Tonight 