Alternative R&B singer-songwriter Mereba is making a triumphant comeback with her third album and first release since 2021, The Breeze Grew a Fire. The album showcases her talents and is Mereba’s most authentic, exciting piece of work yet.
The album’s opening track, ‘Counterfeit’, has an ethereal sound and angelic vocals which give it a comforting and empowering feel. The song champions individualism and self-love. With lyrics such as “You’re the original / Don’t let ‘em counterfeit you”, Mereba is exploring what it is like to be authentic to yourself and how freeing it is to shed the expectations that society sets for you. The song is airy and liberating, and a triumphant first taster of what’s to come.
‘Phone Me’ is a touching song about friendships. The song fittingly starts with the dialling of a phone before slipping into a smooth and emotive track. It conveys a sense of familiarity and warmth due to its inviting and mellow sound. Mereba finishes the song with a repeated resolve: “I ain’t seen ya in a while / I hope you’re doing alright / You know we had a good ride”.
‘breeze grew a fire’ is a standout track on the album, with lyrics spoken over the sound of birds chirping and minimal backing. Lyrics like “My eyes’ blinds began to close / But what kept light from leaving / Kept it from coming in too” and “I hadn’t predicted the chipping away / The rib splits from one side of me to another” prove that Mereba’s talent lies not only in her vocal and musical abilities, but also in her writing. This is a captivating track and a stellar example of Mereba’s capabilities.
‘Starlight (my baby)’ combines electric guitar, a loud beat and Mereba’s dreamy vocals to create a laidback song with a chorus so catchy you’ll be singing it in your head for days. ‘Meteorite’ starts off with a repeated piano riff and soft vocals. The music fades in the middle of the song, followed by a build up of angelic gospel-like layered vocals and instruments which are added to the mix as Mereba asks “Will you follow me?”. The song’s air of hopefulness and strong use of harmonies make it a joy to listen to.
‘Wild Sky’ has a more alternative sound at the start of the song, giving it a different vibe to the other tracks on the album. The song starts off with electronic sounds dispersed between the vocals and then builds up to the song’s climax, a soaring and anthemic chorus with pockets of electric guitar and heavenly vocals. Mereba’s vocals and songwriting skills are particularly apparent on ‘Heart of a Child’, a nostalgic track with perceptive lyrics and dreamlike music.
The final track on the album, titled ‘Sanctuary’ is a relaxing ballad. The soft guitar and beat compliment Mereba’s vocals beautifully. This late night track is the perfect note to finish the album on.
The Breeze Grew a Fire is available on streaming services and to buy now.
Review by Annie Barber.
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