If you follow Alfie Jukes on Instagram or any of his socials, you are more than aware of the soulful voice that radiates from his young soul and his debut EP is a massive step in his growth from social media darling to rising music phenomenon.
The six song EP features previously released singles, “Amsterdam”, “Slow Lane” featuring Lexie Carroll, and “Little Omens” while excluding 2023’s “Traffic Jams” and “Tote Bags”. While fans may be upset that the latter two songs do not show up on the EP, they are not needed nor do they fit the overall mood of the other six songs.
The EP’s titular track, “Little Omens,” exudes an infectious 70’s disco funk vibe, with bass lines that groove as irresistibly as its lyrics. Alfie’s lyrical nod to Venus retrograde is a stroke of brilliance, demonstrating his ability to infuse cleverness and fun into his music. It’s not just the music that shines; Alfie’s vocals elevate the song, showcasing his artistic evolution from the soulful persona of his social media presence to a mature and funk-infused performer.
Alfie’s versatility becomes evident as he transitions from the disco-fueled “Little Omens” to the pure pop-rock exuberance of “Amsterdam.” This track glistens with effervescent bass and drums, coupled with catchy lyrics and vocals brimming with energy, zest, and charm.
Midway through the EP, “Slow Lane” featuring Lexie Carroll is the moment to stop and reflect from the bouncy and bubbly songs before it. Downtempo from the previous two tracks, the bass and drums feel as if they are the heartbeats between Alfie and Lexie. Lexie’s voice compliments Alfie’s beautifully, both are effortless and airy.
“Better than Yesterday” and “Cigarette” instantly win me over with their bass. In fact, the bass throughout Little Omens is sharp and infectious and it steals the spotlight on these two tracks. The latter of the two has the added bonus of an absolutely wonderful melody that is contagious and an earworm.
Similar to the downtempo feel of “Slow Lane”, closing track “Lines” is a whip smart way to end the EP. Reflective and thought provoking, the song leaves a lingering desire for more.
While Little Omens is heartfelt, honest, and drenched in raw emotion, it is an upbeat and soulful journey that wonderfully cements Alfie Juke’s place as an artist who is more than just a viral darling. It proves without a doubt that Alfie Jukes is a bright rising star in music.
MUST LISTEN TRACKS: “Cigarette”, “Amsterdam”, “Little Omens”
FAVOURITE TRACKS: “Cigarette”, “Better than Yesterday”, “Little Omens”, “Amsterdam”
