Since the July 31 release of Sevana’s ‘Be Somebody’ EP, I’ve had quite some time to sit with the music and let it speak to me. In over a month, I am yet to be disappointed by this beautiful body of work and the conversations we have had.
‘Be Somebody’ is the product of a partnership announced earlier this year between Protoje’s Indiggnation Collective and RCA Records. Sevana’s sophomore EP consists of six tracks, each with a distinct style and message, each as masterfully executed as the last. The imagery of ‘Be Somebody’ begins with the very likeness depicted on the cover, which, according to Sevana in a post on her Instagram, “is a statement on me embracing my femininity, artistry and essentially my most expressive self”.
The EP’s namesake kicks it all off with an introduction to the project, perhaps giving some insight to the artist’s motivation. ‘Be Somebody’ boasts bountiful bass, but is also dripping with significance. ‘Phone A Friend’ is a departure from the typical limits of the genre, effectively creating something of an intriguing techno-reggae meld.
‘Mango’ was teased in the upcoming days to the release of the entire project. True to the vision of this project, ‘Mango’ sports its own signature twist on the Jamaican love ballad. ‘Mango’ leaves a sweet aftertaste, and its visual feature is equally succulent. Sevana, in typical fashion, delivers stunning visuals that will change the way you feel about mangoes forever. Along with ‘If You Only Knew’, the track all but embodies the bliss of summer love.
‘Blessed’ is a fusion of Caribbean beats, delivering a distinctly Latin feel. The addition of an enhanced bass line creates a melodious amalgam that truly ought to leave you feeling favoured. The artist pays tribute to her journey and expresses gratitude to God for guiding her path, culminating in what she dubs “Sevana Season”. ‘Set Me On Fire’, one of my personal favourites on the EP, changes the tone for the final time with a take on modern R&B. It spins a web of love and heartbreak that is nearly impossible to escape, detailing what seems to be the trials of a toxic relationship.
While this review may paint the tracks on Sevana’s new ‘Be Somebody’ EP as dissimilar, the complete body of work is quite harmonious. Sevana challenges herself to push not only personal boundaries, but that of the reggae genre, which is often pigeonholed as a specific sound. In my opinion, Sevana’s EP is in tandem with the current perceived shift in the Jamaican sound and creative space, which has seen a surge in many alternative styles and genres. True to the artist’s vision, I find this collection artistic and expressive; I cannot wait to see what Sevana’s next move will be.
‘Be Somebody’ boasts an impressive list of producers, including Protoje, J.L.L, and Sevana herself. The EP is now available for listening and purchase on all streaming platforms.
