A Long Time Coming: VV Brown's Debut Album

Singer-slash-song-writer-slash musician, VV Brown releases her long awaited debut album on July 13th entitled Travelling Like The Light. Signed to the iconic Island Records, the label has been cleverly creating a buzz around VV by releasing several tracks in advance of the album such as ‘indie doo wop’ anthems Crying Blood and Leave. But can the singer live up to the hype? I had a brief listen at work today and must admit, although it’s not necessarily the type of music I would load onto my MP3 player, its definitely listenable. Its got bag loads of energy, attitude, and Ms double Vee's vocals and lyrical phrasing is as original as it gets. I’ve been endorsing the style icon in the making on this blog since I first became aware of her, so needless to say, I wish her the best of luck. 

More VV

The new video from VV Brown to accompany the second single 'Leave'. The track is out on Island Records on March 2nd. Lovin it! 

Why VV's Tops!

If there's any justice in the world we should be seeing a lot of this young lady in the upcoming year. VV Brown is a 24 year old singer/songwriter who hails from Northampton, and is the hottest signing to Island Records, the iconic label behind Amy Winehouse. So what does she sound like? Unlike anyone you've heard before. Her influences are far reaching, resulting in a unique hybrid which blends 50's doo-wop, punk, dub and indie pop. Her brilliant debut single 'Crying Blood' is currently receiving heavy rotation on my You Tube playlist. I call it my 'clean up' tune. The 3 minute blast of energy instantly puts you in an upbeat mood, and will have you cleaning up your home from top to bottom in no time. The video to accompany the track is ultra cool. I love her throwback style - the crazy flat top hairstyle, the trainers with sparkly mini-dress, the offbeat dance moves - what a refreshing change to the generic R&B chick we've been force fed for the best part of the last 10-15 years. Many compare VV to the equally vivacious Janelle Monae. I've only heard a few Janelle tracks, so I'm not wholly familiar with her music, but I get the comparison. This year I predict that the likes of VV, Janelle, Laura Izibor and Santogold will step to the forefront. And about time too. It's time the world recognised that Black women are not an homogeneous group. We are just as distinct and varied as any other group. 

Despite her album not dropping until Spring, VV was recently longlisted as a finalist for the BBC's Sound of 2009. The list is designed to find the best up-and-coming acts for the coming year, and although she didn't win (she came 7th, placed just behind Lady Ga Ga) it's a great accomplishment nonetheless. Read her unique story here. 

And when you're done check out Crying Blood below, followed by a few clips from her channel - VV TV.