Mahalia - 'Headspace' EP

As a supporting artist of Laura Mvula, it seems only natural that my second blog post should be about the talented singer/songwriter Mahalia, who has also supported Emeli Sande, Tom Odell and Ed Sheeran. Not bad for someone so young and only started writing her own music in 2011 with an acoustic guitar in an empty bathtub. Her brand new EP is called ‘Headspace’ and features a similar beautiful and haunting tone of voice as Laura Mvula, but with a raspy, rawness which echoes soul singers of the 50’s and 60’s. Mahalia brings this passionate, soul voice up to date with a simple backdrop of her acoustic guitar, keeping it stripped back and letting the lyrics speak for themselves. The EP ‘Headspace’ is available for download on iTunes, or have a listen to my favourite song from it 'Let the World See the Light' here:

Mahalia has one of those subtle, husky voices that gets you to fall silent and really listen as she hits every high note with a heartfelt sincerity that makes you believe every word of the beautiful love song. Although it doesn't have a pop formula, ‘Let the World See the Light’ is still incredibly catchy, with the repeated line ‘I don't know what it is...’ going round in your head long after you've listened to it. As well as that, featured on her EP is a cover of one of my favourite Arctic Monkey’s songs ‘Mardy Bum’, which surprisingly works as a reworked delicate, acoustic version, again, showcasing her voice. It looks like exciting things can be expected from this young girl; she's definitely one to keep an eye on as she seems destined to become the next big thing.

Follow Mahalia on twitter to find out more about her: 

Follow @MahaliaMusic

Laura Mvula - Sing to the Moon

When I first heard Laura Mvula’s single ‘Green Garden’ I just fell in love with it; everything about it is so beautiful. It’s one of those songs that has you aching with jealousy for anyone who can sing like that, while your own vocal chords strain for those high notes. That lady sure knows how to nail a harmony for that perfect, ethereal sound that sends shivers down your spine. These harmonies run throughout her album ‘Sing to the Moon’ to give Laura Mvula a distinctive, signature sound, which definitely sets her apart from the crowd. However, this doesn't mean all of her songs sound the same: ‘Green Garden’ is an optimistic, upbeat song, while ‘Can’t Live with the World’ is a sleepy, haunting lullaby featuring trills from a harp and an almost waltz-like rhythm. 

‘She’ has a very simple background to Mvula’s stand out vocals with chimes and harmonies from a choir. The lyrics really stand out in this song, which are emotive and uplifting with a strong message of not giving up despite how bad things get. The lyrics ‘she don’t stop’ build into a crescendo of harmonies with a drum beat underneath. Completely different to this is ‘That’s Alright’ with it’s strong drum beat throughout and low, moody harmonies, with the powerful side of Mvula’s vocals taking centre stage.  

As well as a spectacular album and pitch perfect live vocals, Laura Mvula is also ridiculously, effortlessly cool with a striking, minimalist style that matches her music. She actually has a little edit of her favourite pieces at Topshop, which can be found by searching 'Laura Mvula' on their site.

Here are my favourite pieces from it:

I love the monochrome look with quirky details like this quilted jacket, statement shoes and glittery sunglasses. I would wear this outfit with leather trousers and a big, chunky gold necklace which would make the crisp, white shirt really pop. It's just a shame I have literally zero monies to make this dream a reality! But, in my ideal world:

ASOS: £20

ASOS: £30