Lion Babe – Begin
Interscope Records
Begin by LION BABE Babe, we’d be Lion if we said this newly- released album wasn’t the next big thing of 2016. LION BABE is an act that was formed in New York City just five years ago, in 2011. Jillian Hervey and Lucas Goodman are the two that consist of the duo. Even though Hervey’s mother is known as the legendary actress, Vanessa Williams, she decided to make a name of her own, en route to dominating the music world with her partner, Goodman. The two released their debut album this month, Begin, leaving music fans in complete awe and craving even more.
The album fades in on the first track, Whole, with an intense beat, leading to Hervey’s somewhat- raspy and seductive vocals. Even in the first few seconds of the record, laid-back rhythms and trumpets are introduced to the vibe. It is a great transition to the following songs, as the rhythm and upbeat sounds are enhanced by tambourines and faded- out back vocals, as featured in Jump Hi. The record’s seventh track, Where Do We Go, introduces modernized sounds and has great potential of being the next hit on stations. Similar to singer, Jess Glynne, Hervey displays a controlled and consistent range throughout each song with her own unique, exotic, and soul-ish tone. The act continues to keep the up- tempo inspiration, as the album proceeds to the next track (a personal favorite), On The Rocks. If a listener does not only focus on beats, but also lyrics, this is a cleverly written song, as an analogy is presented. Hervey sings “I like it sweet, like it smooth, on the rocks, baby” in the chorus, regarding her personal preference of an alcoholic drink, but also referring to her preference in romantic nature. The act includes a more mellow, relaxed, and serious sound to their profile, as the duo takes on their final track, Little Dreamer, moving the listeners simply with their opening verse, “Sleep little dreamer, don’t forget to rest your little head.” There is no doubt Hervey displays her finest vocals in this song, considering the range and emotion placed into each given lyric. The uplifting track ends the album on a good note (pun intended), as the lyrics hold a deeper meaning of hope and faith. Hervey sings the verses, “Ooh, I’m gonna run through the clouds/I’m gonna stand on a star cause I dream big/Forever.” Hitting multiple high notes, the magnificent singer ends the last few seconds of the album with, “Somewhere out there” With that final song, it seems LION BABE has a lot more dreaming to do! There is a bit of diversity presented throughout each track, as different beats are played with, along with a variety of vocal ranges. However, the duo consistently made an imprint with each song as the modern vibes and sound are likely to attract a diverse and vast population of music fans. If you’re in need of a mood booster, a dance party of one in your bedroom, or a playlist for Friday night prep, LION BABE will definitely do the job.