News Laura Mvula

: Laura Mvula
Based: London
Listen: Soundcloud.com/Lauramvula
Similar to: Nina Simone

It’s a statement that requires framing in the front room of every kitted-out new music listener singing the praises of Laura Mvula, because sooner or later, a backlash is going to form. She’s going to become popular at dinner parties; every cliched montage and televised closing sequence will pay reference to her songs. But in her voice - starved of effects or flashy gimmicks, just plain and raw - she possesses one of the most remarkable talents we’ve come across for years.

Debut tracks ‘She’ and ‘Like The Morning Dew’ are backed by a chorus of purring harp sections and triumphant horns. But for all the furore, as a listener you’re only focused on one vital ingredient: Laura’s voice. In a stripped-down setting or supported by a flurry of instrumentation, this voice remains a constant source of intrigue. It’s rare and unrelenting in its release of touching, uplifting melodies. It’d emerge victorious in any talent show going. Instead Mvula chooses to use it wisely, to forge a career of no bounds or shortcomings. She’s going to be here for a long time. So remember the first time you heard her sing and remember the moment your jaw dropped to the floor.

Taken from the December issue of DIY Magazine.

Laura Mvula’s ‘She’ EP is out now on RCA. The ‘Sing To The Moon’ debut full-length is out 4th March on RCA/Victor.