EP Review: Nectar Woode - 'It’s Like I Never Left'
Nectar Woode’s latest offering lands like a warm hug for the soul.
In a musical landscape often driven by digital trends and algorithmic buzz, Nectar Woode’s latest EP, It’s Like I Never Left, arrives as a tender, deeply rooted breath of fresh air. Released on Since ’93 / RCA, the six-track collection is more than just a sonic offering - it’s a heartfelt return to home, heritage and self.
Raised in Milton Keynes as the daughter of a pattern cutter mother and an amateur saxophonist father, at just 25, the British-Ghanaian soul artist is already establishing herself as one of the UK’s most luminous voices. Her blend of soulful jazz, R&B and warm-hearted boom bap, laced with personal storytelling, has drawn comparisons to greats like Lauryn Hill, Lianne La Havas and even earned her praise from Elton John - who recently called her a reminder of Nina Simone on his Rocket Hour show.
The title of the EP references Woode’s transformative journey to Ghana at the start of the year - her first time exploring her father’s homeland. The feeling of cultural reconnection is palpable throughout the EP; in recent interviews, Woode has spoken of her immediate sense of recognition upon landing in Accra and Aburi, describing the trip as “something I had to do.” This emotional resonance seeps into every corner of the EP.
One of the EP’s singles, ‘Ama Said,’ is an exuberant standout. Built on a bedrock of jazzy chords, boom bap rhythm and soul-infused vocal layering, it’s both a celebration and a love letter - not just to her younger sister, Ama (who provides backing vocals on the track), but to the entire idea of familial love and lineage. Produced by long-time collaborator Woody, the track features their father’s saxophone playing, elevating the groove into something that feels like a Sunday afternoon in your childhood living room - warm, safe and nostalgic.
Woode’s earlier releases - like her debut EP Nothing To Lose, her critically acclaimed second EP Head Above Water and her breakout viral moment ‘Good Vibrations’ - showcased her ability to turn vulnerability into strength. Here, that emotional clarity is sharpened. ‘Only Happen,’ the first taste listeners had of the project, remains a magnetic centrepiece. A collaboration with Jordan Rakei, the track balances groove and introspection, capturing the uncertainty of timing in love and life. Her performance of the track on Later… with Jools Holland earlier this month was a triumph, earning her a flood of new listeners and cementing her as one of the country’s most exciting live performers.
While Nectar’s studio work shines, it’s indeed true that her live shows are where the full spectrum of her artistry comes alive. Having already headlined a sold-out Omeara and supported acts like Leon Bridges and NAO, her recent performances at Glastonbury (as a BBC Introducing artist), as well as her upcoming outings at Love Supreme and Jazz Café Festival, promise to be defining moments. Her ability to connect with audiences, whether on a major stage or in an intimate room, stems from her magnetic presence - both musically and personally.
In a time where authenticity can feel like a buzzword, Nectar Woode is the real thing. With this new EP, she doesn’t just share her story - she invites you into it, one lovingly crafted note at a time.
Words by Gemma Cockrell
