Winnipeg R&B/pop artist HAVS returns with her highly anticipated new EP, art of floating, a smooth, introspective, and evocative six-track project that was released this past Friday, September 13, 2024. HAVS has been building a reputation for her soulful melodies and introspective lyrics, and art of floating solidifies her standing as one of the most exciting rising voices in the Canadian R&B and pop scenes.
Opening up HAVS' brand new EP is the track, "u" which instantly draws you in with its airy production and ethereal vocals. The song showcases HAVS' signature style—vulnerable yet confident—as she reflects on the pull of a relationship that feels almost otherworldly. The dreamy, minimalist beat pairs perfectly with her sultry vocal delivery, creating an entrancing atmosphere that sets the tone for the rest of the record. "stay" shifts the energy slightly with a more rhythmic groove and a faster tempo. The production feels slightly more upbeat, with a catchy hook that has crossover appeal for both pop and R&B audiences. Lyrically, the song delves into the uncertainty of love, where the tension between wanting to hold on and knowing when to let go is palpable. HAVS’ voice effortlessly conveys the emotional weight of the song, balancing smoothness with moments of raw emotion.
"fantasy" follows and introduces a sensual, almost hypnotic vibe. The track explores themes of escapism and idealized love, blending lush vocal harmonies with shimmering synths and light drum beats. HAVS’ vocal performance is a standout here, as she captures both the euphoria and fragility that come with losing oneself in a perfect fantasy. The production is sophisticated, giving the song a sense of quiet intensity that lingers long after it ends.
This brief interlude titled, "before i knew you," is a delicate, atmospheric, light-volumed synth-led piece that offers a moment of reflection amidst the EP’s more lush productions. "before i knew you" feels almost like a stream of consciousness, as HAVS contemplates how much has changed since the person she’s addressing on this project entered her life. It’s a short but poignant moment that adds depth to the emotional journey of art of floating.
Up next is "unmasked," which feels like the emotional centrepiece of the EP. It’s one of the more vulnerable tracks, where HAVS strips away any pretense and confronts the deeper layers of her identity and emotions. The production is sparse, letting her raw vocals take center stage. The lyrics speak to a moment of emotional reckoning—about embracing imperfections and facing the truth. It’s a track that showcases both her growth as an artist and her ability to connect deeply with her listeners.
Closing the EP, the stripped version of "fantasy" offers a more intimate rendition of the EP's third track. By removing the lush production and focusing on acoustic elements via piano, HAVS brings the song’s lyrical themes of escapism and vulnerability into a much more sharper focus. Her vocal performance shines, as the rawness of the stripped-back version allows her emotive delivery to take the spotlight even more than before. It’s a fitting conclusion, highlighting her versatility and ability to reimagine her own work in new and compelling ways.
art of floating is a beautifully cohesive body of work that showcases HAVS’ evolution as both a songwriter and a vocalist. Each track feels like a chapter in an emotional journey, from the dreamy infatuation of "u" to the poignant self-realization of "unmasked." The EP masterfully blends atmospheric R&B and pop production with introspective lyrics, creating a soundscape that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.
HAVS’ ability to balance vulnerability with strength is what makes art of floating stand out. This EP will resonate with listeners who appreciate music that feels authentic, offering a perfect mix of reflective storytelling and smooth, soulful production. It’s an impressive step forward for the Winnipeg artist and suggests that there’s much more to come from HAVS as she continues to hone her craft.