IDA KUDO - Proud EP (Nordic Music Society) 
Release Date: Out Now
I'm a little tardy to the party in terms of sharing this one but Danish-Japanese artist IDA KUDO is worth waiting for so gather round and let me tell you tails of her new EP. The self-described Scandinasian pop star on the rise has delivered the 'Proud' EP which opens up with the avant-soul of 'The Power That Is Woman' and the superb opening line "you've got blood on your hands, I've got blood on my hands, what's the difference". 60s guitars, a gentle sway and vocals full of personality draw you in instantly and puts me in mind of the likes of Kimbra or Christine and the Queens.
'Let's Rewild The World' is a more lurching and skittish affair but still full of unique sounds, soulful vocals and a real sense that here we have an artist who can't help but push boundaries. Title track 'Proud' swoons and sashays with Janelle Monae-esque style and class before 'Okina Nami' draws from those Japanese roots and blends the melodies of East and West with effortless brilliance. The EP finishes up with 'Tigerlilly', a track revels in a meandering playfulness like water finding its way down a mountain after the first thaw of Spring. This is a genuinely sumptuous collection of songs from an artist we all need to be keeping an eye and an ear on in the future.
More information: https://www.facebook.com/idakudomusic