Shura’s 2019 release forevher, is a contrast to her debut release Nothing’s Real which displayed a complex mixture of anxiety and joy. In forevher, Shura channeled these emotions again with a lighter and livelier tone with a subtle flare of funk grooves reminiscent of 70’s and 80’s.
A constant romantic atmosphere is apparent throughout the album especially in “BKLYNLDN” which was written to capture the feeling of being together for the first time with someone you’ve been in a long-distance relationship with. The laidback and easy-going nature of this song clearly depicts this dreamy feeling and makes the listener feel as if in Shura’s shoes. The euphoric storyline of “BKLYNLDN” is continued in “religion (u can lay your hands on me),” vividly portraying being head over heels in love. This song’s breathy and effortless vocals lay over a groovy beat that’s as addictive to listen to as the feeling illustrates.
The mood of the album takes a turn on songs like “princess leia” and “flyin,” highlighting Shura’s anxious thoughts during long-distance travel. With an album like forevher that focuses on exploring the beginnings of new love, these tracks provide a necessary contrast, showing the listener love’s many dimensions. The dramatic and glowing imagery of these songs are derived from “the stage” and are dispersed throughout the entirety of the album. Every song feels like an “endless dreamscape” with a touch of nostalgia that shines sonically and lyrically up until the last track “skyline, be mine.” This song is brief yet has a significant message painting the picture of embarking on a new journey of love, concluding the album with a pulsating ambience.
Catch Shura and Hannah Cohen Live From the Brighton Music Hall this Tuesday night, October 22. The show starts at 8:30 PM and you can stream it here.