Emerging Kiwi act The BackChat are proving themselves as ones to watch in the neo-soul scene as they provide a fresh and unique blend of RnB, hip-hop, funk and pop.
Their debut single Read My Mind off their forthcoming self-titled EP is a dynamic pop anthem that drips with feminine power and sass.
The BackChat’s debut single Read My Mind off their forthcoming debut self-titled EP is a sassy, soulful anthem that exudes power and femininity.
The BackChat is an Auckland-based four-piece made up of vocalist Bekah Smith, guitarist Evon Lavea, Michael Anderson on bass, and Jess Hix on drums. Each of them come from different musical backgrounds but share a common ground in their love of alternative hip-hop and neo-soul music. Their influences range from Anderson .Paak and Childish Gambino to Erykah Badu and Ravyn Lenae.
Their debut single Read My Mind is a slice of soul-infused pop that blends funky bass, sassy vocals, tight rhythms, and spoken word. The track explores the feelings of dissatisfaction that stem from unfulfilled expectations in relationships.
Bekah’s vocals evoke a sense of feminine power, as the lyrics offer up a backlash to people who undervalue others and hurt them with their selfishness. She calls out, “you don’t just take your time, you take up all of mine.”
The music video features each of the band members making their way to meet one another within a glitching alternate universe where objects levitate and the world momentarily moves in reverse. These light-drenched daytime scenes are contrasted with the shots of the band performing in neon-coloured vibrancy.
The BackChat are set to follow up this dynamic tune with five more captivating, soul-drenched tracks on their forthcoming EP The BackChat, exploring everything from relationships to spirituality.
The EP will take listeners on a groovy journey through various emotional colours, from the red of anger to the blue of heartache, all with a sultry and soulful undertone. What ties the EP together is a lyrical directness throughout the tracks that’s both audacious and thoughtful.
The EP was recorded and produced by legendary drummer Tom Broome, mixed and co-produced by Morgan Allen, mastered by Vivek Gabriel, and features synth-wizard Guy Harrison.
Set to be released on the 3rd of July, The BackChat EP is sure to provide six servings of soul-infused RnB listening bliss. You can preview and pre-order the EP here.
