The “Futurespective EP” sees Harleighblu unveiling a cutting-edge electronic spin on her signature hip hop/soul sound via three new tracks – in collaboration with Lost Midas (whose 2014 debut LP snagged both BBC 6Music Album of the Day and a Guardian Guide Single of the Week), Dr Zygote (Black Acre) and Azure – out 1st June on Tru Thoughts. Early support for this new direction includes MistaJam (BBC 1Xtra) and John Kennedy (XFM).

Here, Harleighblu takes the next step, exploring her love of eclectic future beats with some of the finest producers around to craft a sharp, forward-thinking style of soulful pop music dusted with grit and glitter in equal measure. Opener “Mmm feat. Dr Zygote” sees Harleighblu spinning a late night tale of lost shoes, dignity (and more) over a seedily slinky bassline and synth fuzz; on “I feat. Lost Midas”, the LA producer’s distinctive warm, woozy and experimental sound envelops Harleighblu’s emphatic tones as she zeroes in on the target of her lust. “Meant To Be feat. Azure” comes over like a hybrid of late ‘80s/early ‘90s Madonna and FKA Twigs, the rich yet delicate vocals melding with an arresting alt. R&B backdrop and gorgeous production from fellow Nottingham rising star Azure.

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