Music Review: Jaz Elise - Golden Hour EP
Album cover for Golden Hour by Jaz Elise
Release date: March 5, 2021
Jaz Elise is an emerging Jamaican contemporary reggae artist making waves in the international music industry. Recently signed to In.Digg.Nation Collective, she released her first EP "Golden Hour" on March 5, 2021. The EP is composed of 7 tracks with a fusion of RnB, Soul and Reggae.
TRACK 1: ELEVATED
In this song, Jaz Elise expresses self-esteem and confidence in herself. Produced by IzyBeats, the song is a mix of AfroBeats and RnB. “Elevated” is the perfect upbeat opening to the project and readily preps the listener for the project they about to listen to. Jaz Elise’s confidence as a young woman shines through on this track as she boldly states, “I’m a vibe!'“. She cautions potential lovers to approach her with a willingness to give their all because her standards are high.
TRACK 2: GOOD OVER EVIL
She expresses gratitude and appreciation to God for helping her find the right path. This song has a reggae vibe and radiates positivity and a sense of accomplishment as Jaz Elise reminisces on her journey to where she currently stands as an individual and an artist. This second is a natural anthem to motivate any listener trying to walk in their purpose.
TRACK 3: RADIO
One of the singles of the EP, Jaz Elise sings about her special someone. In this upbeat yet sensual track, she boldly proclaims her love to her partner who she confidently tells to show her a one-of-a-kind love by turning her on like a radio. The colourful, feel-good track carries a catchy chorus and an easy vibe.
TRACK 4: FRESH & CLEAN
Fresh & Clean: This dancehall anthem features Govana and is a new take on Jaz E;ise’s previously released single. In “Fresh & Clean”, Jaz Elise states she feels "blessed and free". She tells listeners that when you keep your mind clear and heart clean you can reach another level. The vibrant singer also uses the song as an opportunity to discuss racial pride stating “ We hail from a legacy renown/ Jus’ check yuh skin tone”. The empowering lyrics over the contagious dancehall rhythm with Jaz Elise’s and Govana’s distinct sounds makes it impossible to not to rock to this track.
TRACK 5: AFTER 3 (FT. MORTIMER)
Setting the tone for a more, laid-back, sultry second half, “After 3” is the fifth track of the EP. Jaz Elise collaborates with reggae singer, Mortimer, to deliver a slow, sensual request for a love that has her “like a moth to a flame”. The melancholy song has a mesmerizing feel that puts the listener in a trance.
TRACK 6: STRAYING
In “Straying”, Jaz Elise sings solemnly of a love that has withered but that she is trying to bring back to life. She makes it evident that she just wants to love and to be loved back. Her soulful vocals and deep lyrics are laid atop a Reggae Soul instrumental which carries a Sade-like energy and sound.
TRACK 7: BREATHE
This final track on the project is about taking a break from everything going around us to just breathe. This song is calm and relaxing and carries a jazz vibe; featuring the sound of waves paired with sounds indigenous to Latino music culture such as the maracas and spanish guitar). “Breathe” sets the tone for the listener to look introspectively and meditate not just on the music they have just finished listening to but their own personal lives.
In conclusion, “Golden Hour” is a powerful debut EP from Jaz Elise. Straight out the gate, Jaz Elise sets a high bar in contemporary reggae music; bringing even more attention to the new wave of innovative, eclectic musical artists currently coming out of Jamaica. Her lyrics, unique vocal tone and versatility is complemented well by the well-produced music which accompanies her. We look forward to hearing more from Jaz Elise as she progresses.
Listen to Golden Hour here: https://open.spotify.com/album/5KvwBh1yyh6HiaTGDBzP78