By : Shamus Hill
8 min read
Ethereal. Extremely delicate and light in a way that seems too perfect for this world. When faced with the task of describing the far-stretched and emotionally-moving vocal chords of Berklee College of Music student Entifan there really isn’t a better adjective than that. Capable of transporting listeners to new dimensions with each individual note, the sonics that bolster Entifan’s discography are reminiscent of the way streaks of sun break through the clouds, rain drops delicately glide down a window, or breezes gently part tree branches. There’s a special quality of beauty that emanates from her growing catalog of music, and nowhere do these sentiments become truer than across her first selection of music to be released in 2024.
Reeling in the spring in glorious fashion, Entifan’s If You Wanted To consists of a pairing of tracks titled “Just Sex” and “Excuses.” Not only do these two songs serve as her first of the year, but they’re the first to follow up on her May 2023 debut single “For You.”
“Just Sex” is the first of the two songs to be featured across If You Wanted To, and is a heartfelt, emotive contribution to Entifan’s catalog of songs. Rooted in a lack of synchronicity between a physical and emotional connection, “Just Sex” details a heart-rending instance of relationship turmoil. Beginning with lucious guitar strings and vocal notes that gradually pick up strength throughout the song’s four and a half minute runtime, “Just Sex” is a wondrous exposition of Entifan’s elite caliber of musical talent. Her ability to translate palpable life experience into song is not something that should be overlooked. The dichotomy between lust and love is not a motif that is unique to this release in particular, however what is unique here is Entifan’s capability of expressing the inequities that interpersonal relationships may bring. A profound display of both her penmanship and her singing talent, “Just Sex” is a brilliant addition to her discography.
The second half of If You Wanted To consists of a single titled “Excuses.” In similar fashion to “Just Sex,” “Excuses” begins with gentle guitar strings that make way for Entifan’s tender singing. Much like the previous single, “Excuses” delves into the complexities of love and the difficulties that couples may face when attempting to navigate the ways they feel. Sometimes we can be blinded by our feelings, and ignore alarming, unhealthy behaviors in an attempt to preserve our mental image of a partner. “Excuses” details exactly that, and revolves around the act of excusing someone else’s behavior in hopes that they will change.
The entirety of If You Wanted To makes for an exceptional moment in time for Entifan, as she positions herself to have a groundbreaking year in 2024. With the release of these two songs, fans are hopeful that this will pave the way for an increased influx of new sounds. There’s certainly a lot on the horizon for Berklee’s rising star, and those in search of a refreshing selection of music should definitely be keeping Entifan on their radar.
—Shamus Hill
Originally published in-print in Boston Compass Newspaper #169 May 2024
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