MUSIC REVIEW: AMA LOU’S “DDD”

Londoner Ama Lou is wise, talented, and authentic beyond her years. At 19,  Ama Lou has written and produced four singles: “Lost My Home,” “Said It Already,” “Not Always,” and “TBC.” In March, the charming singer/songwriter/producer released her debut EP DDD.

Ama Lou’s first cohesive project DDD is a triptych on various different levels. The album title is composed of three letters, which stands for three different parts of the day: Dawn, Day, and Dusk. The EP contains three songs, each with their own sonic style and lyrical composition. The project is expected to be accompanied by three music videos, each directed by Ama Lou in collaboration with her sister, Mahalia. Each will be filmed at a different time of day, mirroring the album’s title.

The EP highlights Ama Lou’s warm, smoldering voice and minimalistic production. Her husky vocals, striking vocal range, and snappy percussion exude a spirit of authenticity. In an interview with Milk Studios, Ama Lou commented on the salience of authenticity in her personal and creative life: “the songwriting is always authentic because it comes from a pure place and I feel like because my ego isn’t involved it’s even more authentic because I don’t taint it.”

The EP begins with “Tried Up,” a smooth yet smoky introduction to the project with understated instrument accompaniment. The second song on the EP, “Wrong Lesson,” adopts a more up-beat tempo with delicate and alluring vocals. “Wire” closes the project on a somber yet funk-filled note with a howling saxophone and Lou’s sliding and raspy lyrics.

Image Source: Ama Lou Visuals

Ama Lou embraces the DIY lifestyle, and her EP DDD is no exception. She co-produced all three songs off her EP and self-produced her previous four singles. Ama Lou began her career in writing and production when she was just 11-years old. Having trained in classical opera but drawing inspiration from artists such as Ella Fitzgerald and Justin Bieber, Lou’s vocals ooze with a soulful and fluid charm that transcends genres. In her music videos and Instagram posts, you can find Lou sporting thrifted men’s clothes and  a fresh and naturally dewy complexion with her limbs adorned with delicate gold jewelry.  She is distinct, original, and most importantly, authentically herself.

This 19-year old has a lot in store for the future. Check out Gender Amplified’s Spotify Playlist Authentic: Ama Lou, a female-centered playlist inspired by Ama Lou. Connect with Ama Lou on her website, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, SoundCloud, and Twitter.