Elijah Blake Reviews The Singles

Grammy award winner writes for Clash...

Elijah Blake already has a Grammy award sitting on his mantelpiece.

But the American artist wants more. Continuing his forward charge, debut album 'Shadows & Diamonds' is out this week.

The secret weapon behind hits from Rick Ross, Rihanna, Nas, Common, Alicia Keys and Usher, Elijah Blake is now moving out to centre stage.

Out this week, Clash decided to toast 'Shadows & Diamonds' by placing Elijah Blake in charge of our singles round up.

– – –

Don Broco – 'Automatic'

If I can make the ideal summer video, I would make this video right here; the stop and go freeze frames, the colors, the guitar elements, the 80s vibes that are going on to compliment the melody…I just love everything that's going on. It's honestly more than a music video – its like a moving piece of art. I think it's cool that the hook is somewhat the verse at the same time, I really love this song.

– – –

Duke Dumont – 'The Giver (Reprise)'

I love how upbeat and fun it is. I always love when there's a soulful singer to go against the dance music – when soul meets dance. I love it.

– – –

Kwabs – 'Fight For Your Love'

I really love the Chaka Khan melody on this one. I'm getting a male Chaka Khan vibe – very reminiscent of the early 90s. I really love the sentiment of the song.

– – –

Tinie Tempah feat. Jess Glynne – 'Not Letting Go'

She sounds like she smokes cigarettes which is my favorite type of alto voice. I love the Will Smith, summertime vibe about this video – the wardrobe, the styling is epic. There's so much nostalgia in this video and Tinie Tempah's flow is very different. The simplicity of Jess' voice in the hook is so euphoric.

– – –

Bleachers – 'I Wanna Get Better'

This is one of the most original concepts that I've seen, in terms of the video. I love the narrative element about it and the simplicity of the video. I think it's cool that he kept the distinction of his vocals the whole way through.

– – –

Petite Meller – 'Baby Love'

You can tell a lot of thought went into this video. I have this saying 'eclectic is electric' and that's what I'm getting from this – everything is so electrifying. She's so cool.

– – –

Elijah Blake's new album 'Shadows & Diamonds' is out now.

Buy Clash Magazine

-
Join the Clash mailing list for up to the minute music, fashion and film news.