Złakowska's debut album, developed in collaboration with Tricky, is a remarkable and innovative musical journey that showcases both artists' strengths. The result is a collection of deep, soulful tracks that display the best of Tricky's work in years, while also highlighting Złakowska's sultry, cabaret soul vocals.
"Today," the album's standout track, harks back to Tricky's "Pre-Millennium Tension" and "Nearly God" days with its jerky beatbox bumps, casual analog synth work, and sampled strings, all perfectly complementing Złakowska's mesmerizing vocals. This song sets the stage for the album's overall atmosphere of raw emotion and artistic experimentation.
"When It's Going Wrong" offers a slowed-down "Black Steel" beat and Złakowska's clear, jazzy tones that fill the room with an ethereal mist, rather than the cigarette smoke typically associated with Martina Topley-Bird. This track further cements the unique collaboration between Tricky and Złakowska.
"Nowhere" is a more theatrical piece, with Tricky's restrained and drumless accompaniment allowing Złakowska's vocals to take center stage. The double bass plucks and baroque violins provide an enchanting backdrop for her performance.
Even when venturing into electro-pop territory with "Swimming Away," Tricky's inherent strangeness prevents the music from becoming predictable. Złakowska's warm, inviting vocals evoke early The Knife, while the deranged synths and backup vocals from Tricky create a soundscape more reminiscent of David Lynch than A24.
In conclusion, Złakowska's debut album with Tricky is a testament to their unique collaboration, pushing the boundaries of both artists' talents. The resulting collection of songs is a captivating exploration of soulful vocals and experimental production, sure to delight fans of Tricky's earlier work and those looking for a fresh voice in the world of downtempo music.
