Words-Art Jefferson
Katy B-On A Mission
(Rinse/Columbia)
Katy B’s debut album “On A Mission” is a brilliant representation of the various musical styles of London. While it would have been easy for the South London native to ride an all Dubstep wave, a sound that emerged from the South East end, that would only be a small portion of what makes the musical gumbo of London Town and furthermore Katy B.
One of the best things about this album, amongst many, is that the variety of styles actually have relevance to a scene that many people have spent countless nights raving in or those who have religiously kept their ears glued to pirate stations that catered to the audience’s sensibilities. Whether it be the Funky flavored “Light’s On” featuring Ms. Dynamite or the Breaks inspired yet seductive “Witch’s Brew”, each song feels like it was actually tailored with care rather than a quick throwaway beat that has a rotation life of a week similar to other songs that get’s flung in the various genres’ scenes. Katy B’s vocals are soulful with a bit of confidence without being overbearingly cocky. This in itself is refreshing in a time when vocalists are more content with over proving themselves that they can simply “sing”, thus sometimes overpowering the actual production rather than complimenting it. “Go Away” is a perfect example of how to take the sound of Dubstep and add a high level of sophistication that balances Katy’s stern words of “Go away, just leave me alone, yeah fly away into the stars, never see your face, it would make my world such a better place…”.
Overall Katy B’s album entrance into music is a sure shot winner that doesn’t compromise the sound or integrity of a scene that so many have effortlessly worked hard to build up and establish, thus through that same dedication, created a global phenomenon. If there were any high expectations of the Rinse represented songstress, then Katy B has met those expectations with flying colors.