October London is an artist that defies categorisation – singular yet familiar, contemporary but timeless, with a soulfulness that betrays his youth. After firmly establishing himself as The Rebirth Of Marvin on his acclaimed Death Row Records debut, the sumptuous vocalist returns with the aptly titled October Nights. Conjuring images of crisp autumn evenings spent by a crackling fireplace, it cements its creator as one of the preeminent R&B artists of his era. Twinkling lead single “She Keeps Calling” finds October caught in the throes of a passionate on-and-off relationship. Over its sultry bass, his smoky vocals decry that “you’ve got me roped in, sippin’ your potion.” Displaying his boundless versatility, London’s vocals alternate between commanding and airy, floating over the track like smoke in the air of a dimly-lit lounge. The song climaxes with London’s piercing admission that “I don’t know why I stick around for you,” in a soaring delivery that recalls the genre’s greatest performers. Over funky guitar licks and playful harmonising, “3rd Shift” celebrates a lover who holds her partner down throughout life’s trials and tribulations. October assures his lady that “ain’t no nine-to-five gonna keep me away from you ” with a delicate, elevated pitch. His vocals then take on a deep, seductive husk as he croons “I can’t wait to get back home to you.” October can’t resist his carnal appetite as he slyly instructs his paramour to “add the bacon on the side, ooh that’s right / It’s like my own private cooking show.” “Don’t Waste Your Time” is a melancholy kiss-off to a dalliance that has run its course, with London’s fragile vocals noting the wine in his glass and cigar in his mouth.
