Track of the Week: So Tell Me...

The genre-bending genius of Nia Archives takes an emotionally evoking turn with new cut So Tell Me…; showering the listener in poignancy, the multi-hyphenate continues to dismiss stylistic restriction and refine their peerless sound. 

I remember vividly hearing and reviewing Nia Archives’ debut single back in the summer of 2020. The piece’s conclusion was short and certain - ‘Nia Archives is a talent’. Since then, Nia has soared to success, playing sets at Glastonbury and Boiler Room, and being showered in accolades and awards, most recently nominated for ‘Best Newcomer’ at the MOBO Awards. Hazing the fading lines between artist and producer in an unfounded way, Archives’ plethora of influence results in a sound that draws from Jungle, DnB, Hip Hop, Samba and Soul amongst other genres. Although already a truly unique concoction, Nia continues to add ingredients to the melting pot, with fresh single So Tell Me… the latest amuse-bouche into new sounds, emotion and evolving musicianship. 

The atmospheric synths and delicate strings smoothly contrast Archives’ signature breakbeat drums, building a cinematic palette of resonance, purpose and reflection. Lyrically it’s almost more of a series of distinctive thoughts jumbled together, with Nia dwelling on infatuation and mulling over the right decisions. Whereas many of Nia’s past singles have revolved around a celebration of culture and upbringing, this is a more intrinsically personal track that showcases the artist’s creative maturity and evolution. I’ll say it again, Nia Archives is a talent.