Get Real – Susanne Ørum

Although many artists are releasing music on vinyl today, it remains a rarity in the soulful Scandinavian scene. As a result, it already feels extra special to have Danish R&B singer/songwriter Susanne Ørum’s’ debut Get Real on this format. And the LP design must be the first starting point. From the gatefold artwork, content text and lyrics sheet, you can feel the thoughtfulness that went into the album’s construction.

This attention to detail also comes across in the 13-track music collection.

Straight off the bat – Right Element announces Susanne Ørum’ with a funky and catchy arrangement filled with elements influenced by the past. Everything on this album is well-composed.

The album’s musical roots are firmly planted in modernized ’90s R&B and entwined with her soulful vocals and catchy melodies. The result is a sound that feels nostalgic yet relevant today. It’s groovy at times and will surely get you moving. Just try not sitting still or singing along to You Tell Me. Despite the lyrics’ seriousness, a song Susanne Ørum’ wrote to her younger brother, who was struggling through hard times, the melody is uplifting. You’ll soon be humming the chorus or singing the words out loud.

Inspired lyrics from Master of Your Own Show will also stick with you long after listening. And there are plenty of pure, solid groovers here, as Checkmate will testify.

Looking for a pure R&B song with timeless touches? Look no further than If It’s Cool, featuring Jahi impresses. I immediately searched for the writing credits because it felt like a cover version taken straight from a ‘best-of R&B album‘, featuring artists such as Brandy, TLC or Mary J Blige. I applauded Mogens Palsboll, Susanne Drum, and Torman A Jahi as I read their names. Susanne even references her undying love for the genre by dropping the names Brandy and India Arie on the smooth and beautifully titled track – Lilacs in the Rain.

The singer has overcome her struggles of losing her voice and a life-changing role, and the album reflects her rebirth, respect and admiration for the ability to sing. Susanne Ørum’s outstanding quality is her natural, easy-to-listen soul voice. Listening to her vocals, whether in the background or intentionally, is soothing and calming. There’s no ear fatigue as each track fades and opens into the next.

A successful album does not have to break new ground, top the charts, or immediately win international recognition. However, it would be a shame if this didn’t reach out beyond Danish borders because Susanne has given every track the time and care it deserves. Anyone seeking music of R&B quality will want to look at this and enjoy many hours of satisfying listening time.

Photos by Andy Collins