The Switch

Released in 2015, The Switch represents a pivotal moment in Emily King's career, marking her full embrace of an independent, minimalist aesthetic following her departure from a major label. Produced primarily by Jeremy Most, the album is a departure from the more traditional R&B structures of her debut, opting instead for a hybrid of folk-inflected soul and indie-pop. The record is characterized by its 'dry' production style: instruments are recorded with very little reverb, creating an intense sense of physical proximity. King’s background in the NYC jazz scene is evident in her sophisticated syncopation and phrasing, which allows her to glide over Most's tight, often staccato arrangements. Critically, the album was hailed as a modern soul classic, praised for its 'less is more' philosophy. It solidified King's reputation as a 'musician's musician,' influencing a new wave of bedroom soul and indie-R&B artists who prioritize intimacy over artifice.