R&B/Soul artist Alex Ko releases stunning 6 track debut EP ‘Sentiments’
Manchester-born, South London based artist and creative Alex Ko delivers his stunning debut EP ‘SENTIMENTS’.
Equal parts rich and tender, the rising talent’s introspection is seamlessly displayed across the six-track EP. Comprised of soul, R&B and pop-inflected soundwaves, SENTIMENTS narrates three years of loving and learning as well as moments of vulnerability, strength and understanding that have shaped the Manchester-native’s life and worldview. Opening track “Weapons Down” is a tapestry of intricately produced elements and flawless backing harmonies. Heartfelt and moving, Alex’s spellbinding vocals and emotive lyricism gleam in peace and tranquillity.
The smooth and whimsical production on “Fantasy” quickly follows suit, creating an apt environment for Alex’s perfectly pitched, sensitive confession when longing for an ex-lover and hoping for a different outcome. In a heartfelt plea, the rising talent sings “I want you to live one million stories with me, I want you to look back proud” - a flash of glistening synths and syncopated R&B percussion elevating the intimate textures.
Across the stripped-back “Better Know”, elegant production sets pace for Alex’s impressive vocal cadence as he glides between full voice and falsetto, effortlessly dancing through intricate riffs. Stacked with layers of sophisticated R&B harmonies, the track’s lyrical vulnerability shines through as Alex tells the empowering story of moving on from a broken relationship and finding your worth. ‘Falling from your lips, spilling from your eyes, no limit to the feelings you won't imitate to throw scent off your lies, but I'm wise to it now’, he pleads as we reach the 30hertzbeats-produced track’s emotional apex.
Next up “High On You”, soul-infused instrumentation emerges with intimate wordplay showcasing depth and honesty within his blossoming artistry. “I get high on you, it’s the vibe you give out, energy like oud, sends me to another place while still connected” he sings while exploring connections with loved ones and the uplifting affirmations that solidifies Alex’s shining introspection.
With the gentle yet uplifting track “Understood” blending syncopated synth leads and mesmerising vocals, Ko plays with melodies going between legato and staccato phrasing on the song’s catchy chorus. “Got more than I ever thought I could, feel so understood” Alex sings as he reaffirms the positivity and comfort love can bring.
Drawing SENTIMENTS to a close with “Powerful”, Ko reflects on finding the courage to manifest his authentic values. Told through the lens of owning his distinctive personal style, the song explores the liberation that comes with unashamedly celebrating one’s uniqueness. Produced by multi-platinum artist Mantra, the mastermind behind “Selfish” by Future featuring Rihanna, the RnB/pop gem climaxes in a soaring chorus - ‘my fit makes me feel so powerful’.
Delving into the stories behind SENTIMENTS Alex Ko tells us: “I’ve lived each song’, The concept for the EP was channelled into every aspect, nuance and recording session, where I focussed on creating intimate but understatedly epic soundscapes. Most importantly, I wanted it to be emotive and authentic. I hope people feel like they’re in the room with me when they’re listening, because the experience of creating Sentiments has been like creating a diary.”
Alex Ko’s journey began as the lead in the acclaimed West End production "Thriller”, and the rising talent has since toured the world to sold-out audiences while perfecting his all-round performance skills, honing in on his own distinctive soulful vocals and relatable lyrical style.
Already garnering key support from the likes of WONDERLAND, ONES TO WATCH, WORDPLAY and SPINDLE MAGAZINE, SENTIMENTS continues the exciting trajectory that Alex Ko is carving as a undeniable talent in the R&B landscape and setting himself up as a significant one to watch for 2025.