Sydney's own Polynesian/Australian R&B darling, RISSA, has gifted us a beautiful journey into the human heart with her elegant new EP, 'Where Love Once Was'. This five-track offering is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a chronological walk-through of a modern relationship, capturing the full emotional spectrum from initial sparks to eventual, empowered acceptance.
Written over an intense three-day session with New Zealand’s skilled writing team of producer Edy Liu and songwriter Sam V, the EP possesses a cohesive, flowing narrative that feels utterly personal yet instantly relatable. RISSA’s vocal delivery is a masterclass in emotional depth, exuding a perfect balance of charm and vulnerability as she recounts the inevitable aches of contemporary romance.
The EP’s sound is a tour de force of velvety R&B, immediately evoking comparisons to soulful luminaries like Cleo Sol, Mahalia, and Snoh Aalegra. The instrumentation is lush and expertly layered, moving smoothly through buttery synth textures, rhythmic grooves, and cinematic acoustics. Focus track 'All I Need' is a high point, a burst of classic R&B goodness that captures pure, blissful adoration. "The project is chronologically crafted to step through the chapters of a love story, moving through the newfound interest, to honeymoon feels, heartbreak moments and empowered acceptance. 'Where Love Once Was' is simply a relatable love story captured in its full essence," RISSA explains, adding, "For example, focus track 'All I Need' pours out all the goodness of a classic R&B love song. Think honeymoon-stage, kicking your feet in the air type feels."
The thematic transition is seamless, with previous popular singles like 'Fall Out' and 'Forever' fitting perfectly into the project's arc. These tracks, already enjoying strong support from major Australian radio stations including triple j, triple j Unearthed, and NOVA, showcase RISSA’s ability to blend soulful melodies and gospel-inspired harmonies. The EP then quietly resolves with the jazz-infused closing track, 'Strangers Again', a slow, reflective exhale that signifies moving on.
With a growing catalogue that includes her 2023 debut EP 'Made To Feel' and recent popular singles, RISSA has already garnered over 20 million Spotify streams, claiming her place as a leading emerging R&B/Soul artist on both a national and international stage. This new release solidifies her lane, defined by an undeniable soul and vocal finesse that truly intoxicates. 'Where Love Once Was' is the essential new soundtrack for anyone who’s ever loved, lost, and found their way back to peace.
You can stream the new EP now, and for more, be sure follow RISSA today on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
