Naked Ivy (DK) – Since I Met You EP

Danish soul continues to flourish with the latest debut EP release Since I Met You by a young Danish band called Naked Ivy.

This was my first introduction to the band having just joined the scandinaviansoul.com team, and being a devoted soul lover; I’m keen and excited to listen to the growth of soulful music from the Scandinavian and Nordic regions.

The EP is best described as funk, soul and pop spiced up with talkbox and beatboxing. It can be found on streaming channels like Spotify, and it was there I sunk into the opening track Since I met You, which has got groove, high energy and a catchy chorus that makes you tap your feet. It’s my favourite track next to the laid back No Return where lead singer, Karen la Cour, delivers a strong vocal performance.

Throughout this EP Karen’s vocals are stunning, warm and distinct for a young singer who I’m told only turned 18 this week!*

*at the time of writing

On Somebody it’s time for some talkbox and a more angry vocal. This track has a stressful vibe that makes you hold your breath unwillingly, but it’s a treat when they bring it down and keep it slow, smooth and simple.

The bold, soulful opening of Defiance reminds me of Somebody Elses Guy by Jocelyn Brown and feels like a refreshing take on the old funk classic.

In general Naked Ivy are doing good and have great skills for songwriting too, but for me, the arrangements are a bit plain.

With a band of 8 members, there is a lot going on with guitar solos, talkbox, horns and different keyboard sounds. At times it seems the band has more attention on everybody playing a part on every track rather than keeping focus on what’s best for the individual song.

Lets Get Away is for me the weakest link. Meanwhile, the short City Affairs makes you wonder where this sweet affair could have taken you.