Radar Radio’s head of specialist music James Craigie on Clara La San’s Good Mourning
This week, I’ve had Good Mourning, the debut record by Manchester-based singer/producer Clara La San on repeat.
Clara’s name has been floating around on the internet for a few years now. She first appeared alongside the Gang Fatale collective on their Pleasures & Qs compilations, and then lent vocals to the Mssingno track Fones, which was released by XL Recordings last year.
Clara is a rare voice in UK R&B, known for her unique production in a scene that generally plays it quite safe.
Alright sees her in club mode, filled with the sort of rolling basslines and kicks you’d expect to hear in an E-40 track or a Neptunes production.
But don’t think that means it lacks emotion – if anything, it’s introspective, as she contemplates an unknown character that has wasted her time.
Another personal favourite from the record is the more hopeful Gravity, co-produced by Jam City. On it, Clara ponders the stress of trying to balance a new and special person in her life with a busy career - something we can all relate too.
Regardless of how futuristic her production is, Clara’s hooks are as infectious as any of your favourite pop artists, and they’ll be drilled in your head for weeks to come.
James Craigie
Head of specialist music, Radar Radio
