There’s a delicate sweetness to newcomer Exenia's brand of jazzy soul pop. Light of weight, but not of depth, the New York City-based artist’s five-song EP, 5 Sides, invites closer listening and an easy chair. Rolling out these smooth sailings from behind the boards is über-capable producer Jesse Fischer of Soul Cycle fame. While Fischer co-composed and arranged the proceedings on this debut artist’s fine introduction, Exenia can claim full credit for penning some very personal fare. The collaboration fits both Fischer and Exenia well, especially on a mid-tempo cut like “Loose Change.”
There’s a delicate sweetness to newcomer Exenia's brand of jazzy soul pop. Light of weight, but not of depth, the New York City-based artist’s five-song EP, 5 Sides, invites closer listening and an easy chair. Rolling out these smooth sailings from behind the boards is über-capable producer Jesse Fischer of Soul Cycle fame. While Fischer co-composed and arranged the proceedings on this debut artist’s fine introduction, Exenia can claim full credit for penning some very personal fare. The collaboration fits both Fischer and Exenia well, especially on a mid-tempo cut like “Loose Change.”
One of the three top songs on an EP that connects more and more with repeat listening, “Loose Change” is a lilting relationship tune rich with metaphors and exceptional band work. From David Rosenthal’s warm acoustic guitar work to Adam Jackson’s gentle drums, the musicianship keeps everything a water flow. Fischer is nothing to shake a stick at on the organ flourishes, as is Exenia by the time we get to the more aggressive bridge and some interesting harmonies capture the ear. The satiny cut is fairly representative of the laidback set, and soundly places Exenia on the young stars to watch list.
By L. Michael Gipson
Exenia - "Loose Change"