The latest release from Swedish–Chinese artist Joe Xu ‘Frontin’ is one we, and we’re sure all listeners, would class as soothing soul. The arrangement has a chilled-out vibe as Joe Xu’s gentle yet expressive vocals deliver the essential signature of soul.
However, the softness of the song does not mean it lacks emotion. In writing Frontin‘, the artist processed her fear of being vulnerable and her difficulty feeling loved due to trauma from a previous relationship. This truly comes through as we hear the pain of searching and contemplation in Joe Xu‘s voice.
Overall, the single production outpours many qualities of an R&B/soul song. The sound is warm, soft and smooth – with one effectual exception that we must mention. The injection of an electric guitar is quite distinctive, becoming smoother towards the song’s end. According to Joe Xu, ‘the guitar is a metaphor for the tension she has carried within but is finally starting to release’. It’s a brilliant take that gives an already beautiful song yet another dimension.