Combining an earnest message with an innovative approach to structure and sound, she teases her forthcoming album in style.
Photo: Henry Gorse | Words: Lloyd Bolton
Fran Lobo has been catching eyes and ears in the capital for some time now, operating solo as a singer, songwriter and producer and working with the celebrated Deep Throat Choir. New single 'Armour' teases her debut album 'Burning it Feels Like' with unmistakably confident and ambitious style, even as it interrogates Fran's personal insecurities.
The message to "protect your worth" with psychological "armour" could come a cross as a little earnest and over-familiar as it joins a rapidly growing canon of off-kilter (and some on-kilter) pop singles on that subject. This track stands out defiantly, however, with its boldly unpredictable construction. Saw-toothed synths stab throughout, complemented by whooping screams that could be construed as joyous or terrified. Fresh sections of the song pile on top of each other to create a constantly evolving piece, stretching across styles. From the Tune-Yards-like singalong chorus, we are pulled towards a dreamier section of sparkling synths and club-like vocal hooks. All this before the song darkens into a wilder, distressed section that plays backdrop to a stream-of-consciousness monologue addressing the song's themes in terms alternately defiant and vulnerable.
Rather than telling a simple tale of overcoming insecurity, Fran Lobo represents the ongoing struggles we face in a more realistic self-examination. This is only possible because of the uncommon ambition of her lyric-writing and song composition, which enables such a modern form of communication. It is a tantalising sample of what is sure to be one of the most unique albums released this year.
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