Jessie Ware - Tough Love

If ‘Tough Love’ is an easing into the second Jessie Ware chapter, it works a treat. Not strictly marking any distinct progression from debut album ‘Devotion’, it’s nevertheless a smoothed-out reminder of the South Londoner’s slick ability.

Jessie Ware’s biggest strength is fairly subtle, but it stands out more than ever here. She’s always been able to place brilliantly written songs in muggy surroundings, foggy filters that, in another artist’s hands, might drown the original idea. ‘Tough Love’ keeps things minimal - a constant synth line runs right through, all while note-conquering vocals effortlessly steal the focus. There’s a heart-shattering song at the centre, here, and given longevity it exposes itself as a potentially special song.