From her brand new EP Living In The Shadows, released on 7th June, Filipina songstress Ms. Mia brings us the promo track, and what a saucy belter it is!

We’re looking at one of those jazzy, sleazy 1920s Speakeasy scenes. The big band is having a slug of Moonshine, while a handful of the band jams along as the singer struts her stuff suggestively over the harshly lit stage, cigar smoke pervading the air, men in pinstripe suits and trilby hats half watching the show, half ogling their hanger-on flappers. You get the picture?

Digressing somewhat, I discovered where the term comes from where guys call one another “man”, as in “hey man, how’s it going?” It’s from the days of the Speakeasy, and the segregation the African Americans endured during those times. African American blues and jazz musicians, sick of being referred to as “boy” by their hiring venues – especially in the southern states – empowered themselves and defied those institutionalised bigots by referring to one another as “man” instead of “boy”. They wrestled their own dignity off those people. During the times of the Speakeasy, as I said. Annnnnyway…

It’s cabaret. It’s a Rattlesnake of a number – fey and defiant. Brass, bass, some sweet percussion, and that vocal. Wow! What a mezzo soprano Ms. Mia gives us here. Pop onto You Tube for a look at the promo vid for the single. It’s atmospheric and introspective, gently representative of the message behind the lyrics. I’ll let Ms. Mia explain that, from the EPK:  “The song’s theme is about going away from living a life according to what society dictates, especially climbing that ladder for a career which might look good on paper, but doesn’t fulfill you and slowly kills your spirit over time. This song is always a good reminder for whenever I find myself doing work that is not aligned with my soul and creative intent.” 

The track was produced and mixed by Clarissa Chai, partnered with Recording Engineer Christian Tjandrawinata (who also played the guitars). Final twiddling desk work, i.e. the mastering, is courtesy of Chris Chetland at mighty Kog Studios. Fabulous work all round – and mention has to go to Dean Rodrigues, who supplied the entire rhythm section: bass, drums and percussion. A very atmospheric piece. This would do well if Songbroker got it under the noses of musical directors and screenplay writers. Partnered with NikNak Media, Jan could sell this to Hollywood, mark my words.

The song is made for the board treaders of the world. It’s a showpiece number. Get it done people, get it done!

Nicely chosen promo release to announce the EP from Ms. Mia. Seriously check out the vocal. Rich, powerful, and undoubtedly capable of even more! This is a lady who’s working on her Diva. At this rate she’ll get there. Top marks!