Nia Archives produces an ingenious combination of introspective neo-soul lyrics and surging drumnbass breakbeats, equally focusing on self-reflection and sound system energy. On the strength of two independently released EPs, she was showered with acclaim in 2022, including awards from BBC Music, DJ Mag, MOBO, and NME. Sunrise Bang Ur Head Against tha Wall, her first major-label release, is a more accessible refinement of her already fully formed aesthetic. Carnivalesque opener "Baiana" is an exuberant fusion of samba and jungle, and easily one of her most celebratory tracks. Songs like "No Need 2 Be Sorry, Call Me?" (a duet with Maverick Sabre) and the shimmering, guitar-driven "So Tell Me..." are tender and soul-searching, placing lyrics at the forefront but matching them with the urgency of the rhythms. The closing title track juxtaposes melancholy pianos with choppy, explosive breaks, serving as a moment of cathartic release. ~ Paul Simpson

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