Everyone has their own ways of dealing with heartbreak and loss, but on her debut EP Smoke, vocalist Jordan Gavet chooses to meet those foes head-on with strength and defiance. The “smoke” of the title refers to the EP’s opening track, but it’s also a call-to-arms to confront the hard times and, in her own words, “welcome the smoke, because where there is smoke, there is fire.”
Born into a Samoan family in Australia and raised between Western Sydney and Auckland, Gavet draws on elements of classic soul and R&B but also nods to modern trap and drill sounds. The aforementioned title track features production from Willstah, who’s also worked with Ariana Grande and Ella Mai, and guest vocals from Sydney MC CG Fez. Smoke puts a contemporary spin on classic sounds, such as on “Where You Want to Be”—a ’90s R&B ballad backed up by skittering hi-hats—and “Do Better”—a take-no-prisoners declaration that’s the halfway point between Toni Braxton and Migos. Drawing on myriad influences from both her upbringing and the last half century of American chart music, Gavet’s introductory EP showcases her musical ability and indefatigable spirit.