Long tipped as a vocalist to watch, Ahu steps softly from the shadows of her lauded guest appearances to deliver To:Love. Best-known for her work with Flying Lotus (including Roberta Flack from his Los Angeles LP), Ahu has been hailed by the likes of Gilles Peterson for several years, and yet this is her debut solo release.
It's a captivating performance from the Turkish singer whose unique style might be found somewhere between traditional soul and the studied remove of the likes of Broadcast's Trish Keenan. Her long-time friend and musical ally Paul White provides the subtle, ever-shifting backdrop, a nuanced electronic counterpoint to the more organic psychedelia of his recent ?and the Purple Brain LP.
Things take a dramatic turn on the b-side as Dimlite focuses on the tumult that precedes the post-break up relief, letting harpsichord fly into ravaged drum breaks and squalling synths before slamming the door for the very last time. It's undeniably odd, utterly fascinating, and further evidence that this Swiss wunderkind is a very special talent.
Both instrumentals included and both captivating in their different ways.
Support from Gilles Peterson, Benji B, Gaslamp Killer, Osunlade, Ras G, and lots more.