One 2 Watch: AVERY
AVERY has single-Handedly Thrown me back into an RnB Phase
Photo & Artwork Credits: @byjemelmay
AVERY, the Toronto-based independent artist, has guided me back home.
The last RnB phase I had was around 2016-2020. Artists such as SZA, Kehlani, Summer Walker, Sabrina Claudio, Frank Ocean, Daniel Ceasar, Bryson Tiller, and Brent Faiyaz were on heavy rotation.
In 2020, my music taste shifted as I moved towards more House, HyperPop, and EDM tracks, in an attempt to offset my COVID-era depression with adrenaline-pumping music.
However, I’ve recently grown tired of the upbeat, high-octane dance music. The thrill is gone, my dopamine receptors are shot, and the trick doesn’t work as well as it once did. The thumping 4-on-the-floor feels tiring and monotonous to me. I knew I needed a T-break from EDM, but I was listless... until this morning, when I opened my inbox to a link to AVERY’s Spotify.
As I listened to her music, I felt as if I was getting back to my roots, while also being engulfed in sensual pleasure.
Photo & Artwork Credits: @byjemelmay
I’m even more geeked by the fact that AVERY is a locally grown talent. Born in Hamilton and based in Toronto, AVERY’s music is inspired by her Afro-Caribbean upbringing and incorporates notes of RnB, Jazz, and Reggae. She credits her musical influences to Aretha Franklin, Aaliya, and Bob Marley.
When I first listened to her music, her soulful voice and sultry musical accompaniment invoked thoughts of Kali Uchis, Tems, and Yebba. I was instantly hooked. I was reminded of a calmer and chiller side of myself that I’ve been desiring to tap back into. AVERY’s songs make perfect boudoir music, something you turn on before getting ready for a night out or cooking at home with a glass of wine… you know the vibes.
I recommend starting with her latest single, “US”, produced by goneboy and DeltoidTheNEW. On it, AVERY’s unique voice floats over the beat with ease as she muses on unconditional love and self-reflection. “US” is her fourth single on a forthcoming EP. I’m so excited to listen to that when it comes out.
Do yourself a favour: click the links below and let her music soothe you.
Photo & Artwork Credits: @byjemelmay