Album Review: Lex Amor - 'Forward Ever'
North London luminary artist Lex Amor stuns with her latest release, Forward Ever.
Spooky season may well be upon us but the sun still shines in North London thanks to Lex Amor. Her album, Forward Ever, set for release this Friday is the new addition to her alluring discography and oozes warmth, character, and style. Having become one of the beating hearts of London’s progressive jazz and hip hop scenes, this is an album of spontaneity, joy and heart which is sure to light up the October nights.
The album comes after a period of hiatus for Lex Amor and marks a re-emergence and renewal of her artistry and creative process. Speaking on her various muses and intentions with the release, she explains:
As I've continued through life, I've become more accepting of the dualities that exist within the human experience; I’m convinced of our abilities to transmute experiences and bend all in our favour Forward Ever” for me, is a phrase that represents the activity of resilience—it’s not a phrase that is whispered or mumbled’
A journey of self discovery and looking for authenticity, the weight of the album and its sense of meaning is audible. Track 3 interestingly titled ‘BEG’ in particular capture a real sense of defiant determination. Rather than begging as the title would suggest, Lex commands your attention with a quiet but intense assurance: ‘Trust me/I must go again/It’s just familiar rain/Imma make them rays’. The message of the album is clear from this track alone; its a ‘personal fire’ that points to Lex’s resilience and drive to stand her ground against whatever hard stuff is thrown her way. Known for her collaborative nature, it is no surprise that this release has a handful of gorgeous features sprinkled in. In the past, Lex Amor has created with the likes of Kojey Radical, Wu-Lu, Knucks, Maxwell Owin and Joe-Armon Jones and this album sees credits from BXKS and Eliza. AK7 in particular is a real highlight on the album, and beautifully blends together BXKS’ flow and cadence with Lex’ ability to create soulful soundscapes with a nocturnal timbre.
The beauty of the album and indeed Lex Amor’s wider style and approach to songwriting is in its variety. Her work transcends labels and her versatility as an artist shines through on this release. Every lyric, beat, instrumental and moment of breath is intentional and creates a sonic canvas that is as rich and colorful as it is exciting and fun to listen to. Created out of her own studio which has become a base for her cross-genre pollination, the album speaks to the complexities and wonder of the world she finds herself in. Its a wonderful insight into her character and gives listeners a chance to get to really know her, aside from social media and pr politics. Furthermore, as sole executive producer, Lex Amor’s hands-on approach throughout ‘Forward Ever’ cements it as not only the most personal in terms of style and storytelling, but also in regards to ambition.
A profound meditation on what it means to be resilient and the importance of remaining intentional in life, ‘Forward Ever’ is the redefining of Lex Amor. An insight into who she is and an examination of her essence as an artist, the message of strength and defiance that emerges through the album is sure to resonate with everyone who listens. She has a live show next month that has promised to ‘smash through’ the record at NT’s Loft-a ticket surely not to be missed out on.
Words by Kirsty Thomson
