It is often understated how hard it is to leave somewhere you felt comfortable. Whether that’s a home, a job, a relationship – nobody really focuses on the unknowing of what’s to come. In the case of Linfa Kear’s ‘Warm’, the South East London artist reflects on leaving her part-time job at Hotel Chocolat as like saying goodbye to a relationship. To be fair, I’d be gutted if that meant no longer getting free access to all those Velvetisers.
‘Warm’ illustrates the vulnerability that comes with stepping out of your comfort zone, and its immediate aftermath. Lines of handing back to the keys and insisting that your seat is not kept warm adds a touch of finality. Bringing gravitas to the lyrics that match up with the instrumental. Sombre piano chords ring out into the atmosphere, laying the foundation for Linfa’s vocals to dance around in.
It has a powerful quality to it that draws you in, and time suddenly flies by. ‘Warm’ is a superb introduction that takes a relatable topic and turns it into an ambitious, effortless performance that can connect with anyone. While she might not have known how the following months were gonna go, Linfa Kear’s first exploration into music has delivered a real success.