The British artist's heartfelt third album is characterized by dreamlike soundscapes and insightful self-reflection.
Shura, whose real name is Alexandra Denton, has been away long enough that she can rightfully call her return with the aptly named album ‘I Got Too Sad for My Friends’ a comeback. It’s safe to say that the anticipation has paid off. Her previous record, ‘forevher’, blended pop and alternative influences from a diverse range of artists, establishing her as an artist to watch. The subsequent pandemic disrupted her touring plans and delayed the creation of her third album. Residing in New York, Shura felt a longing for her loved ones while dealing with her own significant health concerns.
The constrained emotions of those intervening years are present in the transatlantic ‘I Got Too Sad for My Friends’, yet the album avoids being weighed down by loneliness or turmoil. It opens with the exquisite, jazz-influenced track ‘Tokyo’, which immediately delivers the warmth and familiarity that Shura's music is known for. This pop and jazz fusion continues into the next track, shedding its layers only to return in the singles from the album: ‘Recognise,’ ‘World’s Worst Girlfriend,’ and the Cassandra Jenkins collaboration ‘Richardson.’ The latter is a folk-infused piece that leaves a strong impression, with both artists skillfully evoking emotions that flutter to unexpected places; envision elegant landscapes and breathtaking peaks, driven by poignant lyrics exploring queer relationship dilemmas and the suffocating feelings of being disconnected from loved ones.
The spirited ‘I Wanna Be Loved by You’ also stands out in this record, which is sure to re-establish Shura in the public eye. Contributions from Helado Negro and Becca Mancari add a smooth touch to the album's concluding tracks, culminating in a powerful third outing that maintains a pop essence while exploring intriguing new directions. Her innovative approach to pop is captivating, redemptive, and filled with vitality. One can only hope that Shura's next album comes together in half the time it took to produce this one.
8/10
Words: Dominic J Stevenson
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Shura, whose real name is Alexandra Denton, has been gone long enough that her return is marked by a new album aptly named ‘I Got Too Sad for My Friends,’ a