About this item

'Unfamiliar Skin' offers a subtle evolution of Hayter’s trademark sound inspired by some of the more favoured corners of her record collection. She has stepped into new territory as sole producer, performer and writer of this album, a personal statement and challenge that she set herself. The result is slick, modern electro soul, colourful electronics and knowing nods to New York disco, proto-house, ‘80s R&B, boogie, and simmering, synth-laden slow jams. Personal, authentic and mesmerising, with Hayter’s thoughtful lyrics and distinctive vocals front and centre, it’s her most impressive and authentic sonic statement to date.

“I’m really excited to be releasing my second album ‘Unfamiliar Skin’. It’s a very personal album to me because I produced, performed and wrote it myself. It felt important for me to do this as only a small percentage of producers are women so I set myself the challenge. The title reflects the new feeling of this role but also has a dual meaning about why the enticing pull of the unfamiliar in relationships can lead to affairs, that’s what the title track is about. I stepped away from my first album a little bit sonically and took inspiration from space-age r&b in the early 2000’s, the sound of Compass Point studios and electronic soul were also a huge influence for me. I have a magpie approach to music in that I’m always looking for something I haven’t heard before that is shiny and exciting to my ears: if it doesn't have magic in it I won’t use it. I made my own world in this record, I’m proud of it and I think it sounds quite unique”.

STAFF COMMENTS

Barry says: Lou Hayter returns with a shimmering suite of dusky disco and soulful, silken R&B. Slapping basslines, snappy percussion and Hayter's beautifully powerful vocals and perfectly pitched harmonies. Reminiscent of the swathes of poppy 90's R&B, but produced with one eye on the future. Ace.

TRACK LISTING

1. Scorpio
2. Frequency
3. Unfamiliar Skin
4. In My Heart
5. Stop The Rain
6. Ok Ok
7. 3AM
8. 808 Beat
9. Life