LP1 by FKA Twigs

The Top 10 of 2014! We’ve made it!

Coming in at the bottom of the Top 10 is Tahliah Debrett Barnett, otherwise known as FKA twigs, an english singer, songwriter, producer and dancer, whose trip-hop based sound took me completely by surprise back in August. This album, and the previous two EPs she released (EP1 in 2012, EP2 in 2013), are best listened to LOUD. Moreso than any other album I’ve listened to in the past few years, this album is layered with sonic goodness. Deep deep bass, voices off in the distance, electronic drums, and her crystal clear voice riding across the top like a slow-motion surfer atop the biggest wave at Mavericks.

This album is sexual, in a way similar to what Prince has been capable of in the past. With lines like “When I trust you we can do it with the lights on,” LP1 has much less innuendo than a Prince album typically does, but the feelings evoked are identical: musical intimacy. Each song is credited to FKA Twigs, along with a bevy of other producers, but that doesn’t prevent the album from holding together well. This is FKA Twigs’ vehicle. The others are just there as hangers-on.

My favorite song on the album, “Two Weeks,” was also the first single and video from the album, and it was posted here back in July. The video above, for the song “Video Girl,” is a close second for “favorite” from the album, but its a less universal song, and will be a more difficult entry into her work for most of you. Don’t let it deter you. The mix of the song featured in the video is different from the album, for what that’s worth. If it’s not your thing, go watch “Two Weeks,” and crank it loud. You won’t be disappointed.

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