We have been spoiled for choice this year when it comes to women-led hits to soundtrack our summer. Whether it be Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso” or “Please Please Please”, Chappell Roan’s “Good Luck Babe”, or any single track from Charli XCX’s Brat; this summer has seen plenty of hit songs to backtrack any trip to the beach or days spent lounging in a beer garden. With her new single “Pick Up”, R&B artist Annisya makes a singular bold statement that in fact summer is not over yet and there is room for more.
The track, reportedly due to be the closing track on her upcoming EP, utilises elements from hip-hop, R&B and afrobeats to create a song that is as mellow as it is boppy. This mix of musical elements almost begs for the song to be listened to whilst laid back with a fruity cocktail in hand. The production is uncomplicated in its arrangement, choosing to focus instead on a consistent mellow beat that is far too easy to get caught on loop in your head. Annisya presents a rhythm that is beyond catchy and feels familiar in all the best ways. This familiarity is not a criticism rather working in the songs favour, presenting the beats as a completely nostalgic arrangement; a new entry of something you already love. Annisya clearly understands what is needed in an R&B tune to accompany a sunny summer’s day and delivers this without any complications.
Where the song really stands out is in the vocal performances from Annisya. From the second her vocals appear, it is clear that her voice is not only fitting, but a true powerhouse in its own right. The song consists of her voice on the main track but also of her repeating certain lyrics on a backing track that provides a choir-like feel to the entire song, adding a unique atmosphere to the song’s already relaxing vibe. Annisya’s voice is soft and comforting, allowing listeners again to feel as though they are returning to a song they have heard before. Her voice provides another layer to the consistent reminiscence that oozes throughout the entire track. Despite this smooth relaxing vocal performance, Annisya delivers her lyrics with such confidence that allows the performance to stick with you, never forcing the lyrical aspects of the song to fall to the wayside. Annisya delivers a performance that is utterly unique, it is both cool and calm yet never nonchalant, a stern delivery with a comforting aura adding another layer to this summer tune lying in a sweet spot of nostalgia.
Annisya takes a simplistic approach to songwriting on this track. The song describes a tricky relationship that has been left unresolved; with Annisya asking can they just start back where they left things, as she reminds us in the catchy chorus “Can we just pick up where we left off”. It is uncomplicated in nature and filled with lyrics one may expect on R&B tracks; such as “Our bodies speak the same language” or “We should get involved right now”. If delving into complicated songwriting and deriving hidden meanings is your itch it’s unlikely “Pick Up” will scratch that for you. Annisya isn’t so focused on complicated themes or intricate writing as she is on providing catchy hooks that can be picked up and repeated after a single listen. This simplistic lyricism works in the song’s favour allowing for a track that is quick and easy to learn and sing along to. It creates an anthem-like nature to the already catchy beat, allowing for a summery tune that can be played on repeat without feeling like any segment of the song is inherently losing its value.
It would be incredibly difficult not to recommend “Pick Up” to anyone, and I have found myself often listening to it as soon as the slightest shimmer of the sun breaks through. It is undoubtedly a song created and perfected to be listened to in good weather. The rhythm and production are arranged tidily to create a relaxing yet exciting beat. The lyrics and hooks are simplistic and easy to repeat and sing along with. Annisya’s voice is definitely the stand out aspect of the track, it is beautifully woven throughout the entire track and despite not utilising complex lyricism it is impossible to not find yourself enamoured with the atmosphere she manages to create whether it be with a confident delivery, a smooth range or the gorgeous backing vocals that feel totally unique. “Pick Up” deserves a spot in any playlist this summer with its relaxing and nostalgic vibe and its ability to bury itself in your brain and get caught on repeat for days on end.
Listen to Annisya Here!
