By It’s our Bandcamp Pick of the Week, featuring the left-field sophisti-pop of Ms Ray’s MELT
Ms Ray – MELT
Genre: Sophisti-Pop
Favorite Tracks: “Thin Ice,” “Miss You,” “Signs”
If the emotional intimacy on MELT is anything to go by, London artist Ms Ray is poised for left-field pop acclaim. The EP features songs on romantic gain and loss, using retro sophisti-pop synths and R&B basslines. It’s a brief, yet incredibly memorable, introduction to her world and to what she’s offering on London’s underground label, Scenic Route — an imprint gaining traction for its eclectic roster that once included Nourished by Time. MELT follows Ms Ray’s 2020 EP, WOW IS NOW, which was similarly soulful, bringing a glossier sheen.
Ms Ray’s irresistible take on synthpop should be filed next to Kate Bush and Janet Jackson, inarguably a delectable and scarce emulation in this post-vaporwave world. The broader pop sphere seems to be more focused on revisiting sleazy electropop from the turn of the millennium, so it’s refreshing to hear another revisit to illustrious pop treated with more delicacy — much like what Fabianna Palladino did on her debut album a couple of years ago.
“Thin Ice” is driven by an infectious R&B bassline, and Ms Ray’s self-harmonization makes her encouragement to escape solitude feel more stirring. Lead single “Miss You,” with Nourished by Time, is the indisputable standout, a modern version of “Don’t Give Up,” Bush’s duet with Peter Gabriel. Contrasting voices convey a universal longing for a cherished someone no longer in their life. “The Key” is almost downtempo, with its steady, chill-out pace and warbly complexion. “Signs,” initially appearing on an earlier Scenic Route compilation, features smooth, glistening synths that make its ballad about a past lover’s return truly elegant.
The bobbing closer, “You’re Here,” follows with enthusiastic new wave riffs, and Ms Ray silkily sings: “I’m thankful every day / That you’ve come here.” I’m also grateful that Ms Ray is here, bringing her spectacular perspective on old-school sophisti-pop music into the modern scene. Yet she carries herself with such dignity in her approach to love; she is a meaningful pop star in the making. Listen to the EP on Bandcamp.
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