‘Slowin it‘ is a perfectly titled EP.
Mind you, easing down, unwind the mind or soul caresses would have worked just as well. They all give a clear indication of the blissful, musical galaxy of Nápoles. Those seeking solace from rapid, throbbing pop or a world currently in distress, should pull up a chair with comfy cushions and settle in here.
Nápoles arrived earlier this year with the mellow and gracious tempo of her neo-soul single – Slowzy. It introduced an intoxicating mix of soul, hip-hop and neo-soul interweaved with softly spoken/sung lyrics. This tune gets me every time!
In the wide world of soul from Scandinavian, Nápoles defined her niche.
With such a smooth vocal style, it naturally floats with a sensuous appeal when the lyrics become sexual on Flower Room. Lovers or ‘friends’ can entwine in pleasure to this slow jam as the flute dances with butterfly dynamics.
Considering the songs subject matter, she keeps the lyrics family-friendly and self-edits herself where the word ‘fucking’ could have been placed.
/ When it comes to.. ughhh …with you /
Nápoles is about feelings, not attitude, and that’s refreshing and endearing. This is mirrored in the EP’s sweet hand-drawn cover artwork which evokes the calming tranquillity of a solo, evening bike ride.
Fellow music detectives like myself are sure to discover another killer in this collection.
Motives.
Pull up! Rewind. Drop it again.
The production throughout this EP is exemplary, particularly notable here with sparkling layers of design, rich synth bass notes and soulful harmonies. The beat drop is perfect, certifying this as mellow goodness at its finest.
Rap segments are nothing new, and on Sun Passion renowned Swedish rapper Chapee introduces his superb ‘flowetry’. Despite its pleasurability, his inclusion feels unnecessary.
Nápoles herself is from an electric female collective ‘Ladieslovehiphop’ and not injecting rhymes by herself, or a fellow female feels like a missed opportunity – if it was needed at all. Regardless, Sun Passion remains a thoroughly enjoyable single with an R&B/pop charm. And the twisted-jazz single Circulate swirls with a vibe so chilled a polar bear would need a coat!
Nápoles is an artist creating musical sanctuary, and this EP delivers the ideal ambience for exquisite late-night escapism.
The Review
Nápoles is an artist creating musical sanctuary, and this EP delivers the ideal ambience for exquisite late-night escapism.
Review Breakdown
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