Alesia Lani’s highly anticipated love like lofi EP is fresh off the press today, Friday, March 8th. Building upon the love from recently released singles homebody and the official music video for fan favourite lean into you from the previous album Self Titled, this EP shows the best of her usual R&B sound, unplugged and cuddled up with this lo-fi beat. Teaming up with FLOST8 to generate this lo-fi sound, collaboratively they bring her audience into a world they can relax right into.
A 12-minute slice of paradise, Alesia Lani provides a comprehensive soul retreat in this EP, not entirely unlike her previous work, and yet we see a more vulnerable and softer Alesia on these tracks, with new songs and already loved early releases as well. Album opener pass that is a refreshing one, as deep distorted vocals introduce the track against a backdrop of a lilting flute sample. Alesia sings the hook “Roll it up, light it up, smoke it up, let go” while a catchy sampled flute moves like smoke rings in the air. The other pre-released track is Homebody, previously featured on METAL, which received a lot of love. Complete with a crackling fire and the rain hidden in the static lo-fi sound, the song leaves no other choice but complete relaxation.
The new feature tracks are equally impressive as the first two heavy-hitters. Tracks like reel me in and water me take the EP in a different direction again, with wailing guitars becoming the lo-fi background, warbling on as they gently weave melodies together. In water me, Lani’s textured vocals linger, inviting listeners into this intimate atmosphere. Lyricism marries this invitation, as she croons, “Don’t be scared; take a dive; come get lost; take that ride.” The percussion mirrors this lo-fi production style, working to mirror the earlier static and rain samples, transitioning towards a gentler, more domestic tone.
Despite the carefree nature of the EP, beautifully illustrated by the accompanying art, Alesia creates moments of intimacy and yearning with her song wait 4 you. Simplicity reigns supreme on this track and is done artfully well, from the stripped-back melancholic piano keys alongside a subtle drum loop to Alesia’s silky smooth sultry vocals. As the song progresses, her vocals adopt a whispering quality, adding to the intimacy. The lingering echo of “I’ll wait for you” follows into the next song, leaving a vocal ghost warming the next with its’ memory.
As love like lo-fi finally makes its way to listeners, it’s impossible not to reflect on Alesia Lani’s success so far, as this EP is truly a testament to her evolution as an artist. A frequent feature now on VH1’s Caught in the Act: Unfaithful, as well as being nominated as the 2023 Official SXSW Artist, her music is set for a global takeover. Notably, having already performed alongside Lizzo, Childish Gambino, and even Guns ‘N’ Roses, if we had to describe Alesia Lani, we would say she is limitless. With upcoming shows in March in her childhood-town of Austin, Texas, Alesia Lani is definitely one to watch.