In a move to beat the 20 Feet From Stardom curse, backing vocalist Ezzy Anya is stepping out from behind such acts as Kelis and The Heavy with her own music. Her Dream EP features three songs showcasing the London-based songstress’ sophisticated and contemporary range.
First up is the piano-led “One Kiss,” in which Ezzy sings lyrics of infatuation, rising pulses and “can’t get you out of my mind” obsessiveness. Longing for that single kiss from the object of her affection, both she and the music present a playfulness before the latter descends into almost rock guitar distortion.
The approach is much more smooth on “Tell Him,” though the message might be more hardcore. The “winning” Ezzy Anya boasts — nay, encourages — her friends to spread the news that she’s moved on and grown after dating that no-good dude. The melody and layered vocals play within Michael Jackson territory, though the tune itself exudes a bit of that Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis flavor from the late ’80s.
“Dream,” the EP’s title track, is soft vocally and musically. Beginning with a music box-style melody, the tune’s atmospheric ambiance takes listeners into the clouds without being a snooze-inducing lullaby.
Though short, Dream seems demonstrative of Ezzy Anya’s capabilities — and perhaps a good sign of what’s to come should she release a proper full-length.
