Katie Schecter - Empress (2025) [Hi-Res]

This sultry-voiced chanteuse wastes no time creating a smoldering, trance-like feel and setting the tone for what’s to come with “Empress”, the opening track to the record of the same name. Her voice holds a cool, almost passive aggressive-like swagger that bleeds Amy Winehouse-style confidence in her own shortcomings. Lyrics like “can you see my weakness / I wear it like a crown / and I don’t need to impress /anyone around” are notable examples – all set to a slightly dark, atmospheric 60s-style slow burn of drum/bass hypnotism.