Ready for a satisfying dose of completely unrecognized talent? Today, we made the fortunate discovery of the songstress that goes by the name of Clay. With only thirty-three followers on SoundCloud, and under 400 total plays to her name (each at the time of this writing), she's pretty close to being an absolute mystery. However, we refuse to deprive our listeners of any good music out there in the infinitely expanding sonic universe, and in Clay's case, she simply must be heard. Her five-track project, Conversations, was released unnoticeably over ten months ago, and right now may be the first time it's ever officially brought to light. It's been hidden long enough... The first track of the EP, entitled "Thinking Aloud", has one SoundCloud tag: "piano strings and me". Some may view negatively the fact that the song consists of only two instruments (in addition to the vocals), but Clay uses what she has with prowess to craft a chillingly beautiful ballad. She throws her vocals on the highest pedestal possible, and nails it, no question. It doesn't take long to acknowledge her musical mastery, and piercing emotions flood every note she sings, showing no lack of style or tune. "Concrete Buildings & Trees" is stripped-down as the first song is, but portrays a much mellower vibe. Clay's smooth, relaxing vocals are perfectly complimented by an acoustic guitar and a subtle drum kit. And following with a similar, but darker feel is the fourth track of the EP, "Inner Turbulence". Serene guitar strums and unique percussion construct another ideal platform for Clay here, and, of course, she guides her vocals through the track with total finesse. So, although the London-native has been residing in the internet's shadows up to this point, we hope to finally unearth her excellence to the world. As always, you can find our favorites below, and, if you're digging (you're going to be digging), head HERE to check the rest of her body of work.
Clay