On Nia Archives’ debut album, Silence is Loud, she’s taking cues from the past – Britpop, punk, pop artists, and Amy Winehouse, to name a few. The album art itself – close up portrait, bright lids, union jack grills peeking out from behind glossed lips – puts a face to jungle music in a way it hasn’t had in a very long time. 

Despite this being her first full release, Nia Archives has long been one to watch. It’s been a steady incline for the Bradford artist since the release of her debut track ‘Sober Feels’ and the support it garnered over lockdown. Since then, she’s openly shaped dance and electronic music appreciation on an institutional level with MOBO awards, released two exceptionally-received EPs and, most recently, has added opening for Beyonce as one of her accolades. There’s much to love.

Opening Silence is Loud is its title track: a frantic energy of breakbeats with a note of loneliness makes its entry and is carried throughout the record. Tracks like ‘Cards On The Table’ and ‘Out of Options’ are earnest and easy-going surprises, marrying poppy acoustic guitar and piano progressions with relentless breaks that push and pull at the same time. Nia’s vocals are bright, almost scatting lightly over breaks and sometimes indulging in more soulful harmonies. Production remains exceptional across the album. Sounds ranging from synths, guitars, vocal lines, and every percussion remain articulate, never hidden. 

Silence is Loud is timeless and a testament to the impact Nia Archives is having and has already had over the past four years; an incredibly promising debut album.