Filah Lah Lah floats masterfully On Air

19 Apr 2024 - 11:30

Published under the Creative Commons Licence

Filah Lah Lah’s debut full-length album On Air is a mesmerising journey through the realms of R&B. The 18-track offering draws upon a fusion of soulful melodies, thoughtful lyrics, slight rap lines and polished production, showcasing the South African singer’s evolution as an artist. Exposed to diverse cultures through her father’s diplomatic work, her Californian upbringing comes through with a cosmopolitan take on urban sounds.

Filah Lah Lah.

One of the standout aspects of this album is Filah Lah Lah’s ability to effortlessly blend different genres and create a cohesive sonic experience. This offering is a progression from her earlier EPs, Filahsofy (2020) and We’re Gonna Be Just Fine (2021), in terms of songwriting and vocal range. The vocals evoke artists like Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu and even Sade, while its production fuses contemporary flair with a touch of nostalgia.

The album kicks off with the stripped-down ‘Ooh Child’, which is accompanied by American gospel clapping. ‘Ready’, meanwhile, employs a Latin jazz feel and a Jamiroquaiesque bassline.

Filah Lah Lah’s lyrical prowess shines through songs like ‘Nobody’ (ft. Blxckie) and ‘Right With You’ (ft. Mars Baby), on which she delves poetically into themes like love, loss and self-discovery. Tracks like ‘Bitch’ and ‘Ready’ offer empowering messages of advice and overcoming scepticism, while songs like ‘Dream’ (ft. Ndabo Zulu), ‘Home’, ‘Way It Should Be’ and ‘Past Myself’ intricately explore themes of identity and belonging.

There is attention to detail on On Air, an album that is in and of itself an expedition into the mind of a young woman grappling with the challenges of a modern word while just trying to be herself. With this project, Filah Lah Lah solidifies her position as a blossoming luminary in the vibrant South African R&B scene. There is plenty more to come from this incredible artist.