Review
Cleo Sol's album "Rose in the Dark," released in 2020, truly dazzles with its fusion of classic and contemporary influences. Produced by the talented Inflo, it effortlessly slips between various genres like dusty R&B, gospel, bossa nova, and acoustic blues. Now, that’s a mix to savor! Her soothing and warm vocals wrap you in messages of self-love, hope, and resilience. Songs like "Rose in the Dark" and "When I'm in Your Arms" echo with that irresistible Motown vibe, while "Young Love" and "One Love" delve deep into the realms of connection and universal affection.
Beneath its soulful surface, "Rose in the Dark" channels the essence of the greats, reminiscent of powerhouses like Jill Scott and Lauryn Hill. Despite these comparisons, Cleo Sol delivers a unique voice that’s authentically hers, establishing her firmly in the modern soul scene. The album's release amidst a global pandemic only heightened its impact, providing comfort and wisdom to those tuning in. Overall, this album beautifully cements Cleo Sol not just as a rising star, but as a musician with the emotional depth to heal and inspire through her melodies. - Kimberly
Artist Bio
Cleo Sol is a singer-songwriter from Ladbroke Grove, West London, who began releasing music in the early 2010s after sharing songs on MySpace as a teenager. Blending influences from her Jamaican-Serbian-Spanish heritage, her sound pulls from neo-soul, R&B, jazz, and touches of Motown and reggae. Her acclaimed albums, including Rose in the Dark and Mother, feature soulful production often crafted with her husband, producer Inflo. Cleo Sol is also known for collaborations with UK artists like Tinie Tempah and Skepta, and for her role in the neo-soul collective SAULT. Fans of Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, and Corinne Bailey Rae will likely enjoy her warm, understated approach.
