Add to Library: "Too High" by Joy Oladokun
Quietly ferocious songwriter and storyteller pens an easily-identifiable pandemic song.
The song
The first time I heard Joy Oladokun’s voice, I melted. Rescued-Arendelle, wicked-witch-of-the-west melted. She’s got a smoky, breathe-supported sound that’s conversational in the likes of Tracy Chapman and Lauryn Hill. And her writing delivers honest storytelling with minimal production needed to prop up the writing.
This Add to Library track, “Too High,” is no different. Mostly an acoustic guitar backing, the picking from the outset hints at The Beatles’ “Blackbird” and the opening vocal line at what could be a traditional Irish folk song.
Lyrically simple, the song tugs at the complexities of our current times with its opening line, Please be patient with me/I am still learning/How to be honest/How to be brave. Released April 14, 2020, its interpretation and meaning for listeners could be far-reaching from what Oladokun intended; something to be very proud of as a songwriter.
When it comes to the chorus, the ascending vocal line and Oladokun’s absolute grace in her upper register is reminiscent of early Adele. Think “Daydreamer.” It’s masterful, as Oladokun sings in unison with her picking.
The layering of her own voice with tightly tied harmonies on the second verse and chorus lead us to the etherial introduction of high-reverb single notes played on a piano at the end of the final chorus into the final moments of the song.
In the world of 2020 dance tracks and heavy 80s throwback production (which don’t get me wrong, I love), “Too High” is a wonderful reminder of singer-songwriter folk music, earning its place in your library.
I’d be remiss to not also mention a few other songs of hers that I love, as she may be a new artist to you. “Memphis” “Sunday” “unwelcoming”
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