Little Simz レコード& CD

Review: Little Simz continues her evolution with Lotus, her sixth studio album. Featuring sensitised singers Obongjayar and Moonchild Sanelly, the album builds on the prolific run Simz has maintained since 2022's No Thank You, which was followed by her first EP Drop 7, the stand-alone single 'Hello, Hi', and collaborations with Coldplay, Sampha and Wretch 32. Lotus explores transformation and resilience, with the lotus flower serving as a key metaphor: lotuses are infamously the only flowers to thrive even in muddy waters. Having described the lotus-like imagery as symbolic of the ability to create something "extraordinary" regardless of circumstances, Simz offers a profound depiction of resilience via the lead single 'Flood', which echoes 'Black Skinhead' era Kanye West with its deep, motile drumming and whispered, lyrical musings on the transfer of power.

Review: Little Simz is back with a new album that comes after years of ever more momentum, awards and critical acclaim. The storytelling rapper's latest long player, Lotus, is named in reference to renewal and growth and the lead single, 'Flood' featuring Obongjayar and Moonchild Sanelly has already made a big mark by blending haunting vocals with a live-band feel that showcases Simz's hard-hitting delivery over creeping basslines. It is a dynamic and introspective sound which also plays out across the rest of the album and here comes on nice pink vinyl. Another standout effort from this contemporary star, then, and just in time for her Meltdown Festival curation and residency at London's Southbank.