Sudan Archives makes good on the potential of her influences on hew new EP, Sink

On Sudan Archives, her North African influences, instrumentally and melodically, were front and centre. The close harmonies on "Come Meh Way" or violin-plucked riff of "Oatmeal", brought a refreshing point of difference to the electronic pop that formed the basis of most tracks. It made for a distinctive addition to the Stones Throw label and left open the question of what could be next for a young artist with such a unique melting pot of musical touchpoints.

Fast forward 10 months, and we have the Sink EP. Initially, this appears as more top quality electronic pop largely in-line with what came before. But it's evident that even in a relatively short period of time, there is gradual change afoot. The most evident, a choosier implementation of her influences. One that's more subtle, considered, and balanced within track and EP alike.

That's not to say that this is a significant departure from the debut. Tracks are once again brought to life as much by influences as they are Sudan Archives' refreshingly straight-up vocal delivery. But this time around it feels like the balance has titled in favour of electronic and pop rather than trying so had to explicitly utilise particular instruments. "Sink", "Mind Control", "Nont for Sale", all feel like pop tracks first and foremost, from which Sudan Archives have elevated with textures and melodies that wouldn't have otherwise been developed. The exception lies in "Pay Attention" and "Escape", where both remain true to the first EP's stronger sense of influence, and are both beautifully different for it.

With Sink, Sudan Archives proves the depth of her songwriting beyond just her unique meld of influences. With a unique musical palette, a lot of talent, and no long player yet announced, It will be interesting to see what direction her sound continues to develop in.