Matt Sharp
A figure known across the global music scene, Juls delivers his first release of the year, the shimmering ‘Hold You Down’. Odeal offers his soft, yet powerful vocal talent to tell a story of love. This record possesses a feeling of intimacy, through its romantic lyricism and the seductive production.
Juls has distinguished himself as an artist that can merge the divide between a variety of musical styles and genres. He has managed to connect the diaspora through production that blends Afrobeats, Reggae, Soul and Hip-Hop. A London born Ghanaian, Juls carries his culture proudly in his musical output.
It’s hard not to be impressed by Juls as a producer, due to his undeniable skill and artistry in everything he lends a hand to. His use of percussive elements to provide his songs with a fluid, dynamic quality is something he does better than anyone. There are few producers who can claim the same level of success as Juls across such an array of genres.
Speaking on the track and his collaborator, Juls expressed, “Odeal is one of the most talented artists I’ve ever come across in the last few years. We spoke about potentially working for time but I wasn’t ready. I have fallen in love with this new sound he’s been experimenting with so it felt right”
Odeal possesses similarities to Juls in his approach to creating music. Identifying as an Alté artist, his music incorporates elements of R&B, Afrobeats, UK Rap and electronic sounds to create something unique. These two genre-blending artists combining is thankfully as special in reality as it is on-paper. ‘Hold You Down’ is an exquisite offering, providing good energy and loving lyricism.