EP Review: [K S R] - Take Control

Take Control, the new EP from [K S R], is a statement of intent from this emerging talent. The five-track gem opens with his latest single ‘Don Madness’, which features fellow Manchester artist Abnormal Sleepz. The chorus is a real earworm for this transitional phase as we head into autumn – the recurring line ‘What is life after summer?’ feels particularly appropriate for the times we are in. Abnormal Sleepz’ verse is a stand-out, with his Mancunian accent coming through clearly, contributing to the city-celebrating feel of Take Control.

 [K S R]’s vocals and songwriting are consistently strong in each track – with his sound combining elements of both R&B and hip-hop. ‘My Lady’, the EP’s second song, combines a sharp beat and backing track with soulful vocals. Its lyrics are simple yet pertinent – this continues throughout the EP. The third track comes in the form of a slower, minute-long ‘Interlude’, which helps to pace [K S R]’s singles within the EP. ‘Interlude’ comes to an abrupt halt before the listener is eased into penultimate track ‘Passion’. 

In ‘Passion’ [K S R]’s smooth and skillful vocals are at their very best, expressing the difficulty of a relationship on the rocks. Contradictory feelings are expressed in the lyrics ‘Now my conscience is telling me that I’m wrong / But your actions speak louder than before’. ‘Passion’ pulsates with rhythmic electronic beats and themes of miscommunication.

‘Take Control’ concludes with the tongue-in-cheek single ‘Stylin’, from which the EP’s title is drawn. [K S R]’s most playful and era-specific lyrics are in this track – most notably, the lines ‘I heard you catchin’ feelings not Corona’. Gentle beats and a catchy hook combine to make this a fitting finale for Take Control.

Clocking in at just 12 minutes, this EP cements [K S R]’s position as a leading voice in Manchester’s neo-soul scene. It goes without saying that [K S R] is definitely one to watch.

Words: Rosie Crabbe