Alexander Crossan, most recognised by his stage name Mura Masa, has released his fourth single of 2024, ‘FLY’, featuring a standout collaboration with the R&B girl group Cherish.
Best known for his 2016 hit, ‘Lovesick’, featuring A$AP Rocky, the Guernsey-born electronic producer has so far released five studio albums, each spotlighting his diverse and genre-defying presence in pop, dance, and hip-hop. With his eclectic discography, long-line of artistic partnerships, and award-winning portfolio, ‘FLY’ signals a shift in stylistic direction from his previous releases, due to its more mainstream, house vibe, as opposed to the hyper-pop inspired 2022 release ‘demon time’.
The track also reflects Mura Masa’s evolving musical identity and willingness to experiment with both new and perhaps forgotten sounds of the dance scene of the late noughties.
The song marks a departure from the collaborative features that have characterised much of Mura Masa’s previous work. While he has previously worked with artists like Lil Uzi Vert, Charli XCX, Damon Albarn, PinkPantheress, and Christine and The Queens, ‘FLY’ delves deeper into the R&B genre with the help of the Atlanta-quartet, Cherish, who bring a rich and authentic old-school element into his distinctive sound.
Cherish’s a cappella vocals add a layer of refinement and pop-production to the monotonous, though fun and catchy, house beat and lyricism: “And I’m so high, don’t wanna come down // Don’t wanna come down // Just let me fly”. The consistent repetition of these lyrics serves to reaffirm the track’s carefree and euphoric mood, forging an infectious and uplifting anthem. It’s a track that could easily have filled dance floors a few years ago, and its timeless charm ensures it still can and will today.
Mura Masa’s upcoming album, Curve 1, will be released on August 23rd 2024 via POND Recordings, marking a new chapter in his creative career as an independent artist. Promising another boundary-pushing collection of tracks that highlight his growth as an artist and producer, only time will tell what exciting developments lie ahead in his future sonic endeavours.
Words by Ruby Brown
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