Yazmin Lacey - “Late Night People”

SXSW 2023 - OEB Score: 9; Popularity Index: 9

Pairs Well With…Jazmine Sullivan, Brittany Howard, H.E.R.

Merging old-school soul with blissed-out atmospherics, Yazmin Lacey is a precise connector of past and present, striking a jazzed-out, moving tone across her early catalog. While it’s clear Lacey is a powerhouse vocalist with naturally rich textures, she’s relatively understated on her three introductory EPs and the a trio of singles already released from her upcoming full-length Voice Notes, due this March. There’s neo-soul resonance in Lacey’s approach, but she smartly doesn’t just rely on her voice to carry each tune, rather crafting slow-funk grooves twisted with psych-pop melodies for a more fulfilling canvas for Lacey to explore. The result is sultry, accessible, and a little tripped-out, elements that enhance her intimate songwriting. Add in some jazz twists and fuller layering of sound and here is an inventive artist that could draw in anyone looking to connect to what could be one of the next great R&B highlights if Voice Notes catches on to more ears upon its release next month. Yazmin Lacey is among the many UK artists setting up shop at the British Music Embassy @ The Courtyard, performing Thursday night on a bill that also includes recommended artists SIPHO and Obongjayar. (Kevin McStravick)