by Orla Brady
February has welcomed the release of Flux, the first EP from Rachel Alice Johnson, otherwise known under her stage name Kohla. Following on from her 2018 debut single S/He, which can be heard on the new EP alongside previously released tracks T O U C H, _Gorgeous and Pxrxdise, the Edinburgh-based artist has not fallen short on praise. She has gained critical acclaim from BBC Introducing and BBC Radio Scotland, alongside rave reviews from UK-based and international music blogs alike.
Kohla’s list of talents are equally impressive. Her talent with regards to songwriting is showcased throughout each track on Flux and her debut live show, which took place in Edinburgh’s Sneaky Pete’s at the end of last year, sold out over a month in advance. Take a quick browse through Kohla’s Instagram page and you will quickly recognise that dance plays a large part in her production and image, as well as perfectly mirroring the seductiveness and allure of the music. Furthermore, Johnson is a graduate of the Edinburgh College of Art and created the artwork for Flux herself. All in all, she has several tools at her disposal to excel as a musician and performer.
The four tracks featured on Flux are equal in their strength and standard. Opening with T O U C H, we are introduced to the delicate vocals and trip hop style of accompanying music that seals Kohla’s signature sound. _Gorgeous displays equally bewitching vocals with a slower, spacious sound, while Pxrxdise presents a heavier R&B style and rawer, more powerful vocals from Johnson, which encapsulates her impressive range. The final track S/He concludes the EP with a steady R&B beat and melodic piano which complements the intriguing, sensual lyrics.
After listening to Kohla’s debut EP, the only suitable advice would be to ensure that her career is followed carefully as the four tracks presented on the EP promise fantastic things from her. She has already built up a steady fanbase which will undoubtedly grow as more music is released. Flux is truly something unique and special.
The Music Files 