EP Review: RAHH - 'I Told You We'd Be Famous'
A recent encounter with the mesmerising, talented artist that is RAHH made me want to hear more from the emerging songstress that just released her debut EP, ‘I Told You We’d Be Famous’! The EP is a six song counting work of R&B art, a sweltering blend of pop and R&B with her gorgeous voice in the midst of it all.
It was when Miles Kane performed in Newcastle that I stumbled across the Manchester-based Holly Quin-Ankrah, better known as RAHH, as she shared the spotlight with the extravagant singer. At times she took away all attention of the man we’d bought our tickets for, simply because of the divine voice she showcased. On her new EP, that voice shines even more. It is a mix of simplistic soundscapes with intriguing beats and shining vocals which results in a thumping and purposeful collection of songs.
‘Weave My Web’ is the song that opens the EP, a simmering track with a theatrical chorus and a twist that changes the song from soft and minimalistic to a layered and vibing one, that is driven by convincing harmonies and woven synth lines! Second song ‘Run The Lights’, single ‘OKAY’ and ‘Home’ are dark and thumping while ‘Good Night’ and ‘Touch Me’ are soaring, passionate and lighter in tone. A well-balanced collection of six very strong singles that all bring out another side of RAHH. ‘Touch Me’ is a favourite on the EP, with a soulful sound resembling that of Beyonce and high notes a la Lady GaGa.
Single ‘OKAY’ got its own and gorgeous, unadorned live version, recorded in the KYOTO Chapel in Essex in collaboration with Shure. The natural, unrefined version of RAHH is still a favourite, because with so much talent, you don’t need much production to sound like an angel. Having grown up in a musical family and aiming to inspire other women in music, it isn’t just the music I admire.
On her single ‘Good Tonight’, she said: “‘Good Tonight’ is a reflection of our modern culture of temporary highs, quick fixes and impatience in a world of next day deliveries and 5G.” This message smoothly ties in with that of the EP, as well as the inspiration behind it: “In a culture of ever growing social networks, mindless distractions and love that doesn’t text back, finding ways to numb the feeling of anxiety and heartache sometimes is the thing that brings us together. The EP is the soundtrack to those reckless nights and the longing for connection.”
As an artist, RAHH never looks to pin herself down, to fit in just one box, or a confined space, and on her debut EP she proves that this is one of her strengths. With dedication and precision, a direction, she points towards what she will be aiming to achieve in the long run. A grand and almost melancholic sound is what brings out the best in her. On ‘I Told You We’d Be Famous’ she is spirited and adventurous, and brings a new and daring sound to the UK’s progressive R&B scene. The singles she released ahead of her release set the tone, a passionate and vibrant one, for what is next for the exciting and lively emerging artist!
Words by Laura Rosierse
