About Stefan Halley
Location: Malmo, Sweden
Occupation: Editor-in-Chief
Bio: Stefan has been writing reviews for seven years and started Pop Syndicate out of need to voice his mis-guided opinion.
Posts: 719
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Ayo has already charted several hits over the pond in Germany and France. With her sultry voice, it’s easy to see why people fell in love with her. Ayo’s blend of reggae with blues is an intoxicating mix. Her soulful voice resonates throughout Joyful, her debut album, and will have audiences tapping along with her urban jazz worldbeat style reminiscent of Norah Jones and Sade.
“Down on My Knees” leads off the album. The reggae-ish beat of the song accents Ayo’s voice as she pleads with her lover not to leave. It’s the highlight of the CD and easy to see why it’s been released as her first single. Ayo blends accordion with some organ and classic guitar for the easy flowing “Without You”. The passion of her voice draws the listener further into CD. It’s a hypnotic sound that makes you want to forget your troubles and just relax. “Letter by Letter” and “How Many Times?” continues the light, easy flow of the album. “And It’s Supposed to be Love” breaks things up a little with a popish waltz.
Joyful continues on the in the same manner. All of the songs are good but none of them really feel like she is being pushed or giving her all. It’s a good listen and one I would put in again and again for a dinner party or just to help relax. There aren’t any highs or lows to the disc and while each song is good, nothing grabs you outside of the first and last track. “Neva Been” shows what Ayo is capable of and reinforces that Joyful could have really been a great album instead of just a good one.
Ayo has talent. There is no doubt about that. Joyful is a solid effort it’s just a shame it doesn’t fully live up to her potential. I hope she gets the attention she deserves. Her easy going coffee house style should be hit with that crowd. Her voice is strong and shows range. Sadly, Joyful lacks the depth and complexity it needs to be fully recommended. As it stands now, Ayo is just another talented face in a sea of talented faces. Hopefully, her debut will sell enough that we’ll get a follow up album and Ayo can stretch her legs at little.
