At a time when the ideas of authenticity and artistry have taken over the musical dialogue, it’s refreshing to hear a project that is uniquely original, from the music to its creation. Enter the Chicago-Born and Raised House of Cry, a gifted artist who wrote, produced, and played just everything you hear on her stellar debut project, Sincerely, Cry.
The seven-track EP arrives with the backing of Salaam Remi, renown for his work with The Fugees, Alicia Keys, Amy Winehouse, Nas, and Miguel, among others. Given his knack for working with such special acts, you’d be right to expect greatness from House of Cry—and that’s exactly what you get here. In recognizing her talents, Salaam stated that he’s “never met a vocalist with a five octave range who can write and play every instrument and engineer her own project to the level.” He added, “Cry is a one of a kind talent and one of the greats. I’m very happy to be the one to help introduce the world to her.”
Sincerely, Cry is a mesmerizing blend of R&B, Soul, Hip-Hop, and Rock. While combining those sounds, Cry uses her influences to her advantage in creating a cohesive yet diverse release. She flaunts R&B balladry on bedroom-ready “Toes Curl,” demonstrates slick guitar work on the gripping “I Don’t Wanna,” impresses with sharp bars on the moody “URAENO,” and vocally shines on the powerful, “Mindful.”
If what we’re getting on Sincerely, Cry is any indication, expect to hear more from House of Cry for years to come. After all, when has Salaam Remi steered us wrong? Sincerely, Cry is now available for stream and can be found through all major digital retailers.