India Shawn’s “BEFORE WE GO (DEEPER)” Is A Perfect Album
[Photo Credit: Dennis Leuphold]
The Los Angeles born singer-songwriter India Shawn’s musical growth over the years has been so beautiful to see. In her earlier years, she started a writing collective called Full Circle, which consisted of her sister and friend. This allowed her the space to not only be creative but also allowed her to write for other artists. During this time, she co-penned with some top charting R&B artists such as El DeBarge, Monica and Chris Brown to name a few. Although these were amazing opportunities collectively, there was still a part of India that wanted to be able to tell her own stories in her own words.
My introduction to the songstress happened back in early 2015. I was scrolling on a music blog and I stumbled across the collaborative EP by India Shawn and James Fauntleroy titled “Outer Limits”. It was something about the song “Floating Away” that grabbed my attention. The soft violin strings and the hint of electro-funk sound on the record made me feel as though I was floating on a cloud. Although I was not familiar with India Shawn’s music, I quickly became a fan.
India Shawn’s debut album was something that I was highly anticipating. Her debut “BEFORE WE GO (DEEPER)” was released on July 21, 2022. What is evident on this album is the evolution of her sound. This release is a continuation to her 2021 debut EP on Epic Records titled “Before We Go” adding seven new songs. On this full length project she teams with the Grammy award winner D’Mile, who also happens to be the executive producer of the album. D’Mile is well known for teaming up with acts such as with H.E.R., Lucky Daye and Silk Sonic. What is clear is the undeniable chemistry between both India and D’Mile which makes for beautiful music.
[Photo Credit: @indiashawn]
Although I love every song on the album, below are 7 of my favourite songs from the album.
India flexes her expansive vocal range on “Too Sweet”. The combination of her voice along with Unknown Mortal Orchestra just sounds “too sweet” to the ear.
“When I Call” is a song that I’m sure many can all relate to (myself included). There is nothing like that exhilarating feeling that you get when it comes to communicating with a new love interest.
“Exchange” is the perfect “dim the lights and light a candle” type of song. On the track, she gets candid as she explores topics of pleasure, reciprocity and love. “Feels good inside when we trade. It feels good when we trade pleasure, for pleasure” coos Shawn on the sultry record.
Shawn’s buttery vocals (especially on the hook) complement the production with the light drums and bass guitar on “Superfine”. She sings about how when it’s all said and done, she will be “superfine” without her absent partner.
“And it would kill me if I let you go, but it hurts the same to hold you close” sings Shawn as she delivers smooth-yet-strong vocals on “Caught in the Middle”. She raises the concerns of determining whether to stay or move on from a relationship.
India’s euphonious voice soars on “Patience” as she asks God to give her guidance and patience as she goes through life. Brooklyn artist Cory Henry assists on the track with his impressive organ solo.
“Just You” is the perfect way to conclude the album. Kaye Fox joins Shawn on the upbeat track. They remind us how the most important relationship that you will ever have is the one with yourself.
Overall, India Shawn’s BEFORE WE GO (DEEPER) is an exquisite debut album that showcases her impressive songwriting skills. The sweet and soulful production from D’Mile really help to tie the album together. I look forward to hear what Shawn’s next project will sound like as I know it will be great.
You can check out her debut album below.
You can also stream her album on: Apple Music | Tidal
You can follow India Shawn on her socials below:
Instagram — IndiaShawn
Soundcloud — India Shawn
Twitter — India Shawn
