to listen or purchase
Just Because has become a favorite among neo-soul fans and for good reason. Conya Doss has one of the most appealing new soul voices, with a slight raspiness that gives it a touch of church behind her cool, confident delivery. And she uses her vocal talents well on Just Because, improving some of the lesser material and making the stronger songs shine, especially the wonderful title cut, an irresistible mid-tempo number that should be in heavy rotation on every urban station. The album occasional overemphasizes the "vibe" at the expense of melody, but absolutely shines where the two co-exist peacefully, such as on the Gospel-tinged "Sweet Love (I Don't Know)," the relaxed duet "The Wind" and the beautiful album closer, "Ain't Givin Up."
Just Because has become a favorite among neo-soul fans and for good reason. Conya Doss has one of the most appealing new soul voices, with a slight raspiness that gives it a touch of church behind her cool, confident delivery. And she uses her vocal talents well on Just Because, improving some of the lesser material and making the stronger songs shine, especially the wonderful title cut, an irresistible mid-tempo number that should be in heavy rotation on every urban station. The album occasional overemphasizes the "vibe" at the expense of melody, but absolutely shines where the two co-exist peacefully, such as on the Gospel-tinged "Sweet Love (I Don't Know)," the relaxed duet "The Wind" and the beautiful album closer, "Ain't Givin Up."
Conya Doss is clearly a performer to watch. Her developing songwriting skills and engaging voice give her the potential to be a major force on the neo-soul scene, and the enjoyable Just Because should just be the start. Anticipate much more from this talented young artist.