When The City Sleeps by Alex Isley is pure R&B bliss from start to finish. I’ve been a fan of this artist for a while, mostly following her collaborations with producer Jack Dine, and while she does come from the lineage of the legendary Isley Brothers, she has undoubtedly carved a lane of her own. Her sound is the very best that modern neo-soul has to offer, complete with smooth vocals and instrumentation (Her project Marigold is a must listen.), and When The City Sleeps is no exception. For starters, this is definitely her longest and arguably most personable album to date, serving as an expression of her thought process when the outside world isn’t as active, hence the title of the album, and a heartfelt love letter to her childhood home in Los Angeles. (The chords and the storytelling on PCH featuring Syd was a treat to listen to.) These sentiments are expressed beautifully from ethereal beginning (Holding On) to showstopping end (Maybe Again), with even songs we’ve heard before from last year’s EP When being seamlessly weaved into this tapestry. I would also like to note that Ms. Isley assembled the Avengers of songwriters and producers for this project, many of which I’m huge fans of. Firstly, the vocally and lyrically talented James Fauntleroy who brought his talents to the title track. Camper, who released a fantastic album called Campilation earlier this year and is a very well-known hitmaker in today’s modern R&B landscape, worked many of this project’s tracks such as Ms. Goody Two Shoes and Hands. (The basslines on those two songs are immaculate.) Freaky Rob, who produced the genre bending Pholks EP by Leon Thomas, brought his talent to incredible tracks like Westside, that once again express Ms. Isley’s connection to the West Coast. (I love how the drums and the guitar were utilized on that particular track as well. Very groovy.) The one and only Kaytranada produced Mic On. (Kaytranada’s sound is so distinct, I immediately knew it was him when I first heard the song.) Also, I of course have to mention my favorite producer D’ Mile, the man behind many of the hits from Bruno Mars, Lucky Daye, and Victoria Monet, who brought his prowess to Alone and Sweetest Lullaby, my favorite songs on the album to no one’s surprise. All of my music nerdiness to say, When The City Sleeps is an eclectic mix of moods and melodies that keeps Ms. Isley’s signature sound at the forefront, which I think perfectly matches the message she was trying to convey. I definitely recommend giving this album a listen it you’re in the mood for some introspective and rejuvenating neo-soul, and I honestly wish I could put on some headphones and listen to this album for the first time again.
Noah Robinson 