Single Review: Conversation

Everything about Rachel Leo’s debut single, Conversation, is picture perfect. A collaboration between Leo and some of Kiwi’s pop greats, Joseph Corban-Banks, Em Basa and Simon Gooding, Conversation sees the 22-year-old stepping out with an incredibly well-thought-out release, one which will undoubtedly see her bringing audiences to their feet in hundreds of summer festivals to come.

Conversation’s clean, enthusiastic production simply cannot be faulted. Each verse positively pulses with excitement. The subtle pop instrumentation and percussion blushes beneath Leo’s cool vocals, which teeter  on the edge of giving way to their sultry, soaring power in each groovy disco-inspired chorus – a melodic and tonal choice which embodies the lyrical theme of frustration over unspoken feelings to a tee. Sound effects throughout the track achieve both a level of polish, and the element of surprise. And that incredible bass line in the chorus, reminiscent of chart toppers like Dua Lipa and Billie Eilish, calls you to dance in a way nobody can deny. 

However, with a song this carefully composed, I am left curious about the woman underneath the shine. Indisputably, Conversation showcases a talented performer, with the singing chops and sonic stylings of the ideal new-generation pop star, but I hope Leo’s future music will hone in on what makes her unique. From her recent promotional materials, built on an incredibly striking Y2K-esque aesthetic of bold prints, colours and lighting, it’s clear that Rachel Leo offers a lot to love.