At first, Merrily James‘ music may strike listeners for the vulnerability the singer conveys to it. However, upon a closer listen, the sexual metaphors introduced by the lyrics integrate that vulnerability with content that certainly adds an extra layer of intrigue and sensuality to the tracks. Her debut EP, Opia, produced by Tommy Eichmann (Alex Winston, Twin Wave) belongs squarely to the electro-soul-pop genre, yet it has a layer of rawness tinged with visceral, smooth vocals that separates it from the pack. In “Sticky Fingers” (streaming below) Merrily James sings, “I lick my sticky fingers/your sugar in my soul/I did everything I can/except to let you go,” exposing an endearing honesty and an anything-for-love attitude those "prudes" Hall and Oates would certainly disagree with. You can see Merrily James at Rough Trade on July 30th. – Madeleine Grossman
