It's a no brainer that 2020 has been one... interesting year. From a worldwide pandemic, to political unrest within the country, the realization (and further denial) of systemic racism, and more, this year has truly been a whirlwind of a ride. However, a constant that has not been phased is the realm of music. Artists have been utilizing their personal time away from crowded areas and seas of fans to hone in on their craft and generate compelling, authentic music. More specifically, the R&B game has been set ablaze by the ladies. From Summer Walker, Snoh Aalegra, Chloe x Halle, Alina Baraz, Teyana Taylor, Kehlani, Jhené Aiko, Brandy, and more, women have been dominating 2020 with spectacular releases that deserve much attention. For those who have never heard of Ambré Perkins, the time to tap in is right. now.
Having released her debut EP, Pulp back in November, the 23 year-old, Roc Nation signee is back with the Director's Cut of her mesmerizing EP (if you have not heard of this EP, you need to better yourself and dive in, it's amazing). The young, Grammy-award winning singer/songwriter adds even more neo-soul enthusiasm with 5 additional tracks. For the Director's Cut, Ambré enlists the likes of the charismatic Smino, Sons of Sonix, and Beam to provide even more larger-than-life feels and vibes for music lovers.
Beginning with "Gucci Slides," Ambré & Smino generate this sensual, dim, candle-burning setting. Like a never-ending river of clouds, Ambré's low, soft voice takes listeners on a journey as she sings to her lover of wanting to really bask in her presence and feel what they feel. Her delivery is literally groovy. Over Coop the Truth, G. Ry, & the iconic Hit-Boy's production, Ambré and Smino bring pure funk to this record. Smino effortlessly glides on the track with his larger-than-life ad-libs, and unorthodox delivery as he raps to his lover about only needing her proudness and approval.
"American Beauty" finds Ambré singing about her mystery lover being the muse to her life. Over this somber, jazz-infused production, Ambré effortlessly delivers. Her voice is buttery and warm. Ambré provides such a charming, suave approach. Listeners get lost into the sea of her poetic words and it makes for such a serene listen. On the soul-filled, acoustic appealing "Risk It All," she sings about having found the one who essentially makes her want to put everything on the table and just go for it with this person. Here, she performs at a higher register, hitting increasingly higher notes and tones. She paints this vivid image of butterflies in your stomach as you think about the one who just brings you utter serenity. Her storytelling ability is flawless.
Ambré amplifies the soul on "Plenty." With the help of the Sons of Sonix, she comes through with this funky old-school vibe as she searches for the ideal lover. The base hits the core as she sings about being intoxicated every night, floating in the thoughts within her head as she searches for the right one. She yearns the presence of authenticity from someone who will show them all of her and give her "plenty" of them.
The Director's Cut ends with the mid-tempo cut, "slip." Interlocking singing and rapping together, Ambré makes it clear that she is not a hoe, but if the moment arises, her lover can get slayed on the spot. Her bars are even better than some actual rappers'. Again, her lyricism provides beautiful imagery over the hallucinogenic production.
Pulp Director's Cut continues to peel back the layers to the artist that is Ambré. Her skill as a singer and songwriter is not to be taken lightly having already created gems for artists such as Chloe x Halle, Kehlani, and more. Pulp allows Ambré to tap into untouchable levels and further develop her sound and craft as an artist. It allows her to place her Director's hat on and take more control within her music and visuals. If she was not on your radar before, Pulp makes it crystal clear that Ambré is up next!
Stream Ambré's "Pulp (Director's Cut)" below!