It is difficult to know where to place a voice like that of Kendra Morris: the capability is so great and the range so broad. On her follow-up to 2012’s ‘Banshee,’ Morris croons and sways through ballads, drawing on her love of Burt Bacharach and an adoration for 70s soul. ‘Nine Lives’ is without creases—perfectly listenable without the vanity to be irresistible. It shifts beyond predictability, inviting the listener to consider its fresh layers. If handled with less intricacy, ‘Nine Lives’ could have been formulaic advert-fodder. With its touching depth and the gorgeous tones of Morris’ voice, it is instead a fully realised exhibition of soulful splendour.
23/30
A favourite: ‘Someone Else’
100 words music reviews 