North West London singer Nyomi Gray has been using her pipes since she was 15, now 20 the release of her second album sees a growth in her music and mindset. Eagerly anticipated the album dropped at the beginning of April amongst critics in the underground scene the feedback has been immense. The title Split Endz has ambiguity, and from a female artist would suggest that she is talking about her hair. What Ny is trying to get at is the separation of communities ‘endz’ in London. This album is an example of coming together with MC’s and producers from the Capital and on a national level with the likes of northerner Rukus.
Only a handful of the songs feature Ny without a collaboration-which is not a major concern as her style is fitting for both MC and solo tracks. The track Fire, made it on MTV Base and features West London rapper Purple. Catchy RnB tune Better Than That features a striking piano sample that falls into place with the Ny’s sweet sound and Jai Box’s creamy vocals. The most striking aspect of the album is the variety of styles and producers that give a well rounded feel. Songs like Gave You, Real or Fake feature former warring parties JME and Ghetto who spit on the same track, both tracks have been produced by Wily. Down Low is a tune that has an ‘Arabian Nights’ style Grime mix, the use of industrial bass samples heighten Ny’s seductive side, and feature cockney MC Bruza. Ny excels in the song Willow that brings a chirpy summer vibe and emphasises the strength and character of her voice. One of the highlights has to be the reggae influenced tune No One Ever Cared that has a conscious theme teamed with Badness the track is golden. Over all favourite has to be In The Crowd, featuring MC, Doctor produced by Aftershock diamond Terror Danjah, the beat is unobtrusive and Ny’s voice is passionate and embodies feelings of missed love.
The album encompasses many styles and tracks show Ny’s talent and versatility. The only criticism is that Ny would be selfish and have more tracks that are just her vocals.
Split Endz, Volume 2 gets 8/10
True Tiger Records
www.nysworld.com
www.truetiger.co.uk
