Album Review: Nao, SATURN

SATURN, the second album from East London-based singer Nao explores themes of heartbreak and trusting your gut.

I first came across Nao accidentally at Electric Picnic in 2016. I witnessed the sensational atmosphere as mesmerised fans sang along to her catchy empowering songs from her debut album, 'For All We Know'. Two years since the release of her debut album, Nao has graced us with her anticipated second album 'SATURN'.

'The Saturn Return' is the inspiration of Nao's new album. "The Saturn Return is when the planet Saturn comes back to meet your natal Saturn. It takes about 29.5 years for this slow-mover to return to where it was when you were born. The Saturn Return hits in the late 20s and its impact is felt into the early 30s". The planet Saturn is believed to be our task master. In this album Nao shares the tasks she has faced and how she has grown from them.

The 13 song album drifts through themes such as love/loss, self-assurance, trusting your instinct, and self-growth after heartache. Since her Saturn return, Nao comes to realise that even though you may love someone, you could both be at different developmental stages in your life. And that's ok. Trust your instinct. In the song 'Orbit', Nao sings, "Kinda sad but you remind me, you remind me of a love who outgrew me too."

Nao has coined the term 'Wonky Funk' to describe her distinctive sound. In essence, her sound is a melange of funk, R'n'B, pop and soul music. Her sweet dynamic voice jumps from high to low registers effortlessly. Collaborations with artists such as SiR and Kwabs, along with her beautiful falsettos, make it easy to lose yourself in the album.

I don't know about you, but I'm looking forward to my Saturn Return if it means there is a possibility of finding similar creative inspiration to Nao's.

I’m taking SATURN tour & tickets are flying, get yours now I wanna see you 🎈🎈🎈https://t.co/zJ8ErQOxul pic.twitter.com/8axuuZN079

— NAO (@thisNAO) October 30, 2018