Alex Isley
When (released April 18, 2025)
Alex Isley was literally born to do this. R&B royalty is her birthright.
But make no mistake, she’s not coasting off her last name. Though she’s the daughter of the legendary Ernie Isley, Alex knows the grind well. Since her debut EP in 2012, she’s slowly built her reputation, brick by soulful brick, as a leading lady in the realm of R&B. But it wasn’t until a pair of acclaimed albums in 2022 and 2023 (Marigold with Jack Dine and I Left My Heart in Ladera with Terrace Martin, respectively) that she moved from R&B’s best kept secret to star on the rise.
Though I was happy for her success, your faithful, unbiased album reviewer always had one lingering criticism: her projects largely had the same sound – the same vibe.
Sure, they were good, but it was getting hard to distinguish one from another. If left unchecked, the result can be diminishing returns for each project – a problem that still plagues artists like H.E.R.
Thankfully, Alex realized that it was time to diversify her portfolio. The result is When – an EP that only features six songs, but is arguably her most daring and dynamic release to date.
Current single “Ms. Goody Two Shoes” is already a slight departure from the norm. Produced by R&B MVP DJ Camper, Alex is oozing with confidence over sultry sonic backdrops. This time out, she’s not longing for love, she’s demanding attention. “Yes, it’s immaculate and it’s magic/Thank your lucky stars, I’ma let you have it” – it’s the other side of Alex’s sexuality. She knows what she wants, and her lover better be grateful that she wants him.
“Hands” is the perfect example of songwriting finding harmony with production. Y’all have heard me say many times that the best songs tell stories, and strong production should be part of that story. Look no further than this track. Alex delivers another sensual performance in sync with pulsing guitar licks. So when she purrs: “Pull me into your embrace with your … hands,” as fingers strum those strings, it’s poetry.
The biggest surprise – and my prediction for biggest hit – is “Mic On,” a head-nodding banger courtesy of Kaytranada. Over pulsating production, we’re once again introduced to Alex’s cocky side as she rightfully stakes her claim in the R&B game: “pitch perfect, literally … ain’t Maybelline, I was born with it/You ain’t check the bloodline? … But if you ain’t already know/Baby, this your FYI.” Never thought I’d used the word “banger” for an Alex Isley song, but trust, this has the attitude and aura of a R&B summer smash.
But never fear, Alex doesn’t stray far from her roots. Album opener “Holdin’ On” is more of that vintage Alex sound, welcoming listeners with elegant piano keys while her vocals float effortlessly by. “Fool’s Gold” is much of the same vibe – light and airy but Alex’s performance remains engaging.
However, “Thank You For a Lovely Time” is probably the best of worlds both old and new. Producer Oh Gosh Leotus helps Alex craft a song that’s equally sweet and sardonic. “Why do I keep wanting what doesn’t want me?/Why do I love you hardly when you hardly see me?” The result is the most polite breakup record you’ll ever hear. It’s so rich, so sincere, and so real.
At just six tracks, it’s a little unfair to give this EP one of my usual star ratings, but just know that it’s easily one of the best releases of 2025 so far, and very likely Alex’s best project to date. When proves that she’s more than just a (literal) one-note artist. She’s not afraid to take chances, and that vision paid off in spectacular fashion.
If we’re talking Alex’s career trajectory and future superstardom, the question isn’t When. The answer is now.
Best tracks: “Mic On,” “Ms. Goody Two Shoes,” “Thank You For a Lovely Time”
Leave A Reply