I’ve been championing UK singer Samm Henshaw since first discovering him last year – and I’m delighted to share his phenomenal new single, Better. The track follows on from Only Wanna Be With You and Redemption, both of which I’ve probably listened to a hundred times by now.
His deeply rich voice and warm melodies create stunning tracks that nod to bygone eras of blues, soul and gospel, without ever falling into the ‘nostalgia’ category. He will be releasing his debut EP The Sound Experiment on July 13 – so mark that date in your calendar right now.
Only Wanna Be With You exuded a romantic vibe akin to John Legend, while Redemption was stripped back and raw, with a bluesy twang that takes a gospel turn. Meanwhile, Better is fuller than the first two tracks. Playing around with extra instrumental layers, this is ambrosia for the ears. A timeless melody leads the slow jam, embellished with dazzling harmonies, all the while dancing above gorgeous guitar licks and a finger-clicked rhythm.
Enveloping the listener from the very first phrase, the track just builds and builds. After about 2:25, the track unleashes an instrumental swell of Phil Collins proportions – and yes, I’ll admit, there is some serious chair dancing happening right now.
Without doubt one of my favourite discoveries of the past year, I cannot wait for the world to embrace Samm Henshaw.
Check out Samm Henshaw’s Soundcloud for more music, and click here for a breathtaking unplugged rendition of Only Wanna Be With You