Collard returns with a soulful new track ‘Favour’, which is produced by Grammy nominated producer LOXE. Collard’s deep vocals empower the smooth and jazzy rhythm of the track as he reveals the emotional complexities of finding love.
“It’s a song about love and how someone can feel love in many different ways but sometimes you’re lucky enough to find a love which transcends the past and touched you on a spiritual level” Collard explains. “As much as that is what the song means it’s also an ode to the omnipotent divinity of a woman which men can often find themselves intimidated and threatened by, hence the line “Men all fall at your likeness.”
Directed by, frequent collaborators, Joseph Shaw and Eseosa Ohen the video is an expressionist take on the songs lyrics. Spinning a narrative through a nebulous dark world, it follows Collard as he moves between the different facets of love, from jealousy and adoration to inner peace.
Last year the 25 year old singer/songwriter released his critically acclaimed album ‘Unholy’. A visceral, poetic and downright sensual record where Collard lays his heart – and his body – on the line. Inspired by the feeling he gets listening to his heroes, D’Angelo, Janis Joplin, Otis Redding, Prince and The Rolling Stones Collard channels deep emotions, an old soul and an easy vulnerability that you cannot help but be moved by. With a Motown, gospel-loving mother and a father intent on raising him on diet of Sinatra, Ray Charles and Eric Benet, the importance of soulful music and great song-writing was instilled in him from the start.
‘Hell Song’ is a powerful starting point and one that makes it clear why the album carries the name it does and why tracks like the mournful ‘Vultures’ boast so much Biblical imagery. As well as the conflict between faith and desire, a strong female energy runs through the record. The album also includes the old school funk of ‘Greyhound’, the slinky Kojey Radical-featuring ‘Ground Control’, which effortlessly pays tribute to both David Bowie and Frank Ocean as well as the dramatic tale of ‘Merciless’. All visuals have been directed by frequent collaborators Joe Shaw and Eseosa Ohen (Pulse Films).
There’s been fantastic radio support on ‘Unholy’ across the board from Radio 1, 6Music (for whom he recorded an intense live session at Maida Vale studios), 1Xtra, BBC Asian Network, Radio X, Elton John @ Beats 1, Reprezent & Amazing Radio.
Since the album’s release Collard has played his first ever solo live show to a sold-out crowd at the Camden Assembly and performed at one of Annie Mac’s “Presents” nights at the legendary Jazz Café. Last autumn he did a residency of 3 shows at West London’s exclusive Laylow club and collaborated with Bakar for the release of on a new track ‘Stone’. This song is another example of Collard’s innovative and genreless approach to songwriting and exemplifies his status as one of the UK music scenes most essential new artists.
Last month Collard returned to the stage for his sold out headline show at the Omeara as well as Annie Mac’s “Presents” nights at Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club along with Arlo Parks and Lucy Lu.
More music and live shows to follow this year so stay tuned!
“Unholy” is out now via Lost Ones/ Virgin EMI and available here
