Saturday 29 February 2020

Review: Sasha Jay - Learning By Experience (EP)

In September, Brighton-born singer-songwriter Sasha Jay, who now lives in North London, released her debut single 'Three Rings'. A unique tale about her much-missed late mother Lynn, who was a real character, the jaunty and unique track sets the tone for this debut EP, 'Learning By Experience', which takes the listener on an eclectic musical journey over its 14 minute running time.



The EP is a perfect sampler of Sasha's wide repertoire; a varied performer both musically and lyrically with inspirations ranging from Eva Cassidy and Lily Allen to Red Hot Chili Peppers and Eminem, she is just as strong when singing a melodic pop chorus as she is when delivering a gritty rap about her often turbulent life experiences.

Sasha's lyrics are clever and thought-provoking throughout this EP, with other themes covered including her reaction to the political lanscape of the last few years on 'The Politics Song' while 'They Hate The Truth' tackles the reactions of Sasha's family to some home truths.

'Worth More' tells the story of a troubled friend who deserves more than the unpleasant life that he is currently enduring, while 'Keep On Going' is an introspective highlight of the EP that sees Sasha deliver a raw and heartfelt vocal that conveys the honest emotion of the song's lyrics.

Having written lyrics since the age of 11 and music since the age of 16, Sasha's tales of her upbringing, her family, the people she has met, and the situations she has encountered over the years make for a very diverse debut EP. And while the lyrics and storytelling take centre stage here, the melodies are strong and there are also some neat production flourishes throughout. This EP deserves to be heard far and wide.

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