Smoky alto vocals anchored by cinematic strings and jazz-inflected grooves. A deeply personal exploration of heritage and heartbreak set against a South London backdrop.
It’s like Amy Winehouse went to therapy and then took a long, beautiful walk through South London.
A poised and soulful reflection on heritage, home, and the strength found in vulnerability.
Skin is the debut studio album by Joy Crookes, a project that arrived after years of anticipation following several successful EPs. Released in 2021, the album solidified her position as a leading voice in the UK's neo-soul and jazz-pop scenes. Musically, the record is a sophisticated blend of traditional soul, jazz fusion, and chamber pop, heavily characterized by its use of orchestral arrangements and analog production. Lyrically, Crookes delves into her dual Bangladeshi and Irish heritage, particularly on tracks like 'Theek Ache,' while also addressing social issues like the gentrification of South London on '19th Floor.' The album was produced primarily by Blue May, who helped craft a sound that is both timeless and contemporary. Critical reception was overwhelmingly positive, with many noting her vocal similarities to Amy Winehouse while praising her unique narrative lens. Skin was shortlisted for the 2022 Mercury Prize, marking it as one of the most significant British debuts of its year.
Put this on for
Sun setting over a brick skyline while the kettle boilsRain streaking the bus window during a quiet ride through the citySunday morning coffee with the windows open to the street noiseLate night solo walk when the streetlights feel like spotlightsThat heavy silence after a long talk about where you come fromCooking a slow meal while the radio hums in the backgroundStaring at old family photos and seeing your own eyes in them
Moments worth waiting for
The triumphant brass explosion and handclaps that drive the chorus of Feet Don't Fail Me Now.
The intimate, piano-led vulnerability of the title track where her voice sits inches from the mic.
The way the strings swell into a cinematic climax during the final minute of Power.
Sounds like
2021s production with a 2020s soul
Sits beside
Back to Black - Amy Winehouse, Not Your Muse - Celeste, Collapsed in Sunbeams - Arlo Parks, Lost & Found - Jorja Smith
Lyrical territory
identity, self_examination, love_lost
03Deviation
Skin · vs · Joy Crookes
Artist
This Album
Medium Energy
Energy · ↑ +15% more than usual
On this album, medium energy sits about 15% more prominent than across the rest of the artist's catalogue.
