Alfie Connor shouldn't really sound this assured, not as this stage.
The Sheffield-native only graduated from Goldsmiths College in London a matter of months ago, yet he's already betrayed a rare magnetism for gathering hype.
Yet he's taking it all in his stride. Debut single 'Stranger' is out now via Talking Shop Records, a velvet-smooth fusion of R&B, pop and an imposing degree of depth.
Clash is pleased as punch to be able to premiere the B-side of the single. 'Lie To You' is an intoxicating yet bewildering gem; the sunshine melody and nagging beat drift upward, but there's a bittersweet quality to the lyric.
Choppy guitars and a funky edge make for something with an Afrobeat flavour, or even Chic's lighter side. Above all else, though, it simply sounds assured.
Check it out now.
Catch Alfie Connor at London venue Servant Jazz Quarters on April 15th.
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