Fresh from her successful first headline show at Servant Jazz Quarters, London, 21-year- old RnB singer Olivia Nelson is back with her latest single, ‘Smother Me’.
Now, to summarise this track in a word, it is sex.
It introduces itself with minimalist piano, underlying Nelson’s trademark soulful vocals. However, the track soon escalates into a sensual, undulating rhythm, rolled along by an almost lazily layered backbone of bass and drums. The cherry on top of this already tasty cake comes in the form of a wailing electric guitar, bringing the song to its climax.
Yet, despite the single’s polished production (courtesy of Jarreau Vandal) it is Nelson’s voice that steals the show. She fills each line with character, emotion, and an assured confidence that goes beyond her youthful years. She tells the tale of falling in love for the first time, the overwhelming rush of emotion that the artist herself describes as,
“Feeling like the wind could carry you away in one sweep, like nothing else matters. Like you’re weightless and everything in the world is suddenly brighter.”
It is this honest nonchalance that makes the piece so accessible. It perfectly balances on the elusive boundary between relatability and effortless cool.
This song’s smooth, sophisticated sound gives you the feeling that you’ve somehow gained entry to that club. The club you never believed you were suave enough to even get near the guest list of. With ‘Smother Me’, you’re already in the VIP section and, with the repeat button only inches away, you never have to leave.
Find Olivia Nelson online on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
