Lauren Mikki 23/01/24 @ Hyde Park Book Club

Longtime Leeds jazz/soul promoter DJ Lubi kicks off his 2024 Hyde Park Book Club season with some quality contemporary alternative RnB/soul from singer Lauren Mikki. Already established on the Leeds music scene in the last few years with a series of local shows (supports and headlines), single releases and a host of collaborations with other artists, Lauren launches her long awaited debut EP "These Feelings Are Fleeting" at the Book Club on Tuesday 23rd January (release date 26th January).

Soundtracking the past three years of her life, the body of work savours the most beautiful and painful moments from her experiences. Musically, it's sophisticated soulful music with elements of classic late 90s/early 2000s RnB alongside bang up-to-date beats and production. Proper songs built on strong melodies/hooks, grooving bass lines, beautiful harmonised backing vocals and Lauren's "sweet as honey" voice sitting on top, like icing on a cake. Lyrically, her songs show a maturity way beyond her young years.

Growing up travelling between her northern home and family in the south, Lauren was surrounded by diverse musical tastes that have subtly influenced her style. From a childhood dominated by the indie tastes of her parents, she went on to discover her love for soulful music and singers like Sabrina Claudio, Ariana Grande, Victoria Monett, Raye and Solange.

After a couple of years of honing her craft, the long awaited debut EP is here. The singles have already had strong support on BBC Introducing West Yorkshire with "Disconnect" making "single of the week". Tonight she launches the EP backed by her quality band of Leeds jazz/soul scene faces (Nathan Chambers - guitar/keys, Dan Dessoy - guitar, Stu Whyte - alto sax, Gustavo Andrade - tenor sax, Louis George - bass guitar, Charlie Tanner - drums). Nothing beats a great RnB/soul singer backed by a tight live band. Playback live PA shows don't even come close.

Come and check out this talented emerging soul artist delivering her debut EP and stepping her game up to the next level.