Albums
June: 18 albums you need to hear this month
Jlin, Goldie, Arca and more
Nite Jewel 'Real High' (Gloriette Records)
Nite Jewel’s fourth album is her most personal and lyric-driven yet. Recorded over four years in Los Angeles, Ramona Gonzalez explores the euphoric peaks of love and its insecurities, especially on the title track – a contemplative, futuristic ballad with minimal production and downbeat, stretched-out vocals. Though more upbeat, ‘When I Decide (It’s Alright)’ shows signs of vulnerability, while ‘Obsession’ and ‘R We Talking Long’ reflect the challenges of finding love in a hyper-modern social media society. But its melodic and groovy lead single ‘2 Good 2 Be True’ that’s the summery, synth-led highlight, as Ramona’s effortlessly infectious vocal soars over finger clicks and dreamy 80s production. Ben Jolley
8/10
