Dark Mind EP Review

The Dark Mind EP by Janine and the Mixtape offers much in the way of contemporary RnB. In an industry such as the RnB scene where it can be quite difficult to produce something fresh, new and exciting, Janine and the Mixtape have succeeded at this very feat. The opening track Let It Run drops your emotional guard with chilling synth, atmospheric pads and vocal melodies that will melt your heart and send your mind into a total relaxation state. Immediately you can hear the talent in Janine’s vocals and are left wanting for more. Aside from this song being a chill and ambient experience, it is also haunting and eye opening. Great use of effects and vocal fades see to that right away.

The title track Dark Mind hits you like a breath of fresh air. Still being locked into the chill state of the previous number I was impressed and immediately found myself loving the range and flare that Janine brings to her vocals. Recording is top notch and the dubstep style bass drops add a very cool and unique energy. I’m totally digging everything about this. Lyrics are well written, catchy and will stick with you like super glue. I am reminded a lot of Jessie J with this style of singing and also the power of the vocals she possesses.

Keeping with the theme of the EP so far, tracks Hold Me and Little Bit throw you back into an emotional and relaxed state where the last track Bullets is a happy and feel good song that reminisces in gospel style backing vocals, Janine really belts it here and I love it.

My imagination goes wild while listening to this EP and I am inspired to write reviews and play music. The vocals are mind blowing and complimented so well by the use of pad effects and synthesizer drums. I think everyone could find something they like in this whether they were into RnB or not. The talent is undeniable and has much much potential. I’m very happy that she hasn’t stuck to being a bedroom warrior and is getting out there and showing off the talent that NZ has to offer, it’s great to see.

-Jesse Reeves