Multitalented British-Nigerian singer, songwriter and published author Elizabeth Laade Johnson – known to the scene as E.J – celebrates the sheer uplift and escapism of soulful music in its most raw and authentic state, with the intoxicating, powerful and timeless album Reminiscence. Releasing on July 19tth, 2024, this new album is set to captivate listeners with its heartfelt songs and emotional depth.
Formerly a biomedical graduate, E.J has always been inspired by music and storytelling. These cornerstones of her life are vividly expressed in Reminiscence, showcasing her distinct vocals and powerful songwriting. The album delves into themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, creating a journey through a plethora of emotions.
Humble rock and soul-kissed soundscapes back up E.J.’s evocative vocals, as she explores the ache and passion of love in the phenomenal opener Crazy Love.
Performances vary from quiet and intimate to bold and compelling, maintaining a soul-driven mood with subtle hints of influence from Afro and mainstream Pop. E.J.’s unique vocal and writing style shine through, offering an eclectic yet cohesive sound.
For I’ll Pretend, the album moves into a breathtaking arrangement reminiscent of a Gospel ballad. Pieces Of My Heart features retro keys, drums, and subtle horns, creating a nostalgic groove that perfectly complements E.J.’s sensational vocals as she navigates the highs and lows of love.
Committed to authenticity in its personal storytelling, Reminiscence captures the clear emotional depth of E.J.’s voice. Whether delivering the euphoric energy and gritty pace of I’m Not Ready For Love or the smooth, melodic warmth of What Good Is A Heart, the album consistently reflects a deep desire to maintain realness and humanity.
In My Dreams is another standout, a piano-led ballad of intemacy and revelation that builds beautifully towards an enchanting and impassioned crescendo. On the flip side, E.J. offers a hypnotic groove and soulfully confident performance with the aptly-titled floor-filler Get Stepping To It.
E.J.’s ability to intertwine effective songwriting and storytelling is second to none. The 15 tracks of this project, including the exotic bounce of Magic in the Air and the heart-breaking honesty of Another Man, blend ambient and conceptual power with heartfelt authenticity. Another Man’ is about the heart wanting what it wants, expressed vividly through demonstrative lyrics and memorable hooks over instrumentation featuring gentle piano tones, precise drums, and straightforward bass, providing a backdrop for E.J’s soulful performance. The tune features an excellent orchestral feel that elevates its haunting allure. Despite the album’s versatility, it consistently showcases E.J.’s strength of character and integrity.
In an industry known for its unpredictability, E J has stood out for her resilience and longevity, with a dynamic career marked by exploration, evolution, and constant growth. Her musical odyssey began in church, where her soulful voice and profound lyrics resonated with audiences seeking spiritual solace and inspiration. As she matured and blossomed into her own artist, she seamlessly transitioned into the realm of R&B, expanding her artistic horizons while retaining the core of her messages. E.J’s goal when creating music is to make the listener feel the passion, raw emotions, and energy she puts into her work.
‘Reminiscence’ is much more than just a collection of 15 tracks; it’s an immersive experience, expressing the human condition through music and capturing the essence of love, sorrow, and loss with brutal honesty and poignant beauty. With this album, she invites listeners to explore the darker side of emotion and find solace in the shared experience of sound.
The lyrics are based on real-life events and emotions, making it easier to connect with listeners who have faced similar situations. This album is E.J’s way of sharing her journey and emotions with the world, connecting with listeners on a deeper level, and inspiring them to find their own strength and hope.
‘Remember Me’ is one track from this album that leaves a lasting impression on the heart and soul. Its poignancy, the gentle yet expressive piano tones, and the sheer beauty and soulful range of E.J’s vocals struck a chord with me. The sorrowful lyrics reflect a hurting heart after seeing what was believed to be their forever love move on with another person. Raw and affecting lyrics express this kind of betrayal, allowing a listener to discover their own story and deep connection.
Wrapping things up is a seductively soulful guitar groove and a remarkable vocal performance from E.J. Goodbye encapsulates the peak of this journey that is Reminiscence, a final closing of the door secured by a shoulder-swaying blues groove and a long-form, raspy and intoxicating voice. There’s a certain celebratory sense of overcoming to the delivery, but also a poignant emotional longing that rightfully reflects upon all that’s come to pass. It is a sonic tour de force with a noticeable country touch. The intro mirrors Chris Stapleton’s ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ as E.J’s words vividly paint a love that never materialized due to the other person’s cruelty. Beneath the poignant words is an ode to a resilient spirit moving on from the toxicity and reclaiming her own strength and independence. The song captures the essence of this bittersweet Goodbye in everything from arrangement to delivery and production, and makes for one last highlight from an album loaded with superb tracks.
Set to release on July 19th, 2024, Reminiscence is an album that devotes itself to unity and truth, reflecting the complexities of the heart and soul. E.J. has already garnered tens of thousands of followers on social media and streaming platforms, and the launch of Reminiscence is poised to expand her audience and enhance her reputation as a compelling and authentic artist.
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Media Contact
Company Name: Aldage Books Publishing Limited
Contact Person: Sarah Joseph, Artist Manager
Email: Send Email
Phone: 020 3652 1084
Country: United Kingdom
Website: https://aldagebookspublishing.com