Jill Scott, Pressha | Song Review

Grammy-winning R&B singer-songwriter Jill Scott shines on “Pressha,” the second advanced single from her long-awaited sixth album, To Whom This May Concern.

Oh, snap! “Beautiful People” was a superb comeback single for Grammy-winning R&B singer-songwriter Jill Scott (b. 1972). “Pressha”, the second single from Scott’s highly anticipated sixth studio album, To Whom This May Concern (arrives February 15, 2016), keeps the same energy and is, arguably, even better. Scott wrote the eighth track from To Who This May Concern with Adam Blackstone, Vincent “VT” Tolan, Ayo Brame, and Kev Choice. She produced it with Blackstone and Tolan.

A soulful, neo-soul groove sets the tone on “Pressha.” I love the detuned sound of the keys and synths.  Beyond those keys, the potent, robust bass line provides a mighty anchor.  Between it and the dusty drums, it’s a mean one-two punch.  Adding to the ear candy are the horns that appear during the chorus.  While the musical accompaniment is utterly sublime, Jill Scott is the star of the show.  Her vocals are a Chef’s kiss! Her tone is sublime, while her performance is soulful to the nth degree. She sings with incredible ease, never forcing things.  Interestingly, the verses (all three) are shorter than the chorus. The chorus is repetitive, but definitely the crème de la crème. “I wasn’t the aesthetic (I guess) / I guess, I guess, I get it,” she sings, and adds, “So much pressure to appear just like them / I found it so pathetic…” The third verse, which is bridge-like, distinguishes itself from the first two.  Even though it differentiates itself, the sound isn’t totally removed.  Wrapping things up, “Pressha” marks another #winning advanced single from Jill Scott’s comeback album. Do I have any notes for Jill? None.  This song is awesome!

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Jill Scott » To Whom This May Concern » Blues Babe Records LLC / Human Re Sources / The Orchard » 1.2.26 [📷: Blues Babe Records LLC / Human Re Sources / The Orchard]

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