Californian composer K.Flay kickstarted her career five years ago when her mixtape, Stopped Caring in ’96, won her a contract with RCA Records. This led to the release of her What If It Is EP in 2013 before she set up her own label and unleashed her critically acclaimed inaugural album, Life as a Dog. Now she’s back with a brand-new four track undertaking called Crush Me.

It starts with the subtle yet exciting riff of “Blood in the Cut”, which persists purposefully beneath the haunting harmony of the verse. There’s a tremendously intense sound to the whole thing as it trots enthrallingly towards an eruption of electrifying instrumentation in the enlivening last minute. The result is a reserved but riveting opener that remains arresting throughout.

“Hollywood Fever” features more mellow guitars amid a serene yet stirring serenade next, all of which builds bracingly as it unfolds. The singing stays slick and enticing atop intoxicating riffs and pressing percussion, giving rise to a remarkably atmospheric effort that leaves a lasting impression.

“Dreamers” takes its time developing as it saunters slowly across a sea of soft riffs and soothing vocals. Its serene psychedelic style allows it to rest easy on the ears while simultaneously sounding exotic and singular.

“You Felt Right” is another laid-back addition afterwards, made up of mesmerising monologue-like stanzas and pleasant but powerful choruses. It all drifts gently in the direction of a fantastically affecting final refrain, endowing the record with a delicate denouement.

K.Flay has forged a fascinating fusion of pop, rock and R ‘N’ B that’s full of feeling and fervour. Its magnificently moving melodies combine with its adroitly-executed instrumentation to create a wonderfully original compilation that should have no problem appealing to a vast and varied listenership.