Picture this: you’re in a dimly lit lounge, the kind where time seems to slow down, and the air hums with stories of longing and heartbreak. That’s the vibe Niia captures in her breathtaking new take on “Angel Eyes,” a jazz standard that’s been reimagined with a raw, modern edge. Released via the iconic Candid Records, this track is a soul-stirring glimpse into Niia’s evolution as an artist who’s unafraid to strip things down and bare her soul. If you’re craving music that feels like a whispered secret, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into why “Angel Eyes” is the perfect introduction to Niia’s next chapter.
A Fresh Spin on a Timeless Classic
Niia’s “Angel Eyes,” produced by Spencer Zahn with Benjamin Bock on keys, takes the 1946 jazz standard by Matt Dennis and Earl B. Brent and flips it into something entirely her own. This isn’t your typical cover—there’s no nostalgia here, no leaning on the past. Instead, Niia delivers a haunting, minimalist rendition that feels like it’s floating in a dreamlike space between jazz, nu-jazz, and adult contemporary. Her slow phrasing and minimal vibrato give the song an aching intimacy, while soft reharmonization adds a fresh layer to its familiar melody. It’s like hearing a whispered confession in a crowded room—personal, raw, and impossible to ignore.
The production, helmed by Zahn, is a masterclass in blending vintage elegance with modern warmth. Known for his work with artists like Dawn Richards, Zahn creates a lush, exploratory soundscape that feels both timeless and forward-thinking. The track’s sparse arrangement lets Niia’s vocals take center stage, delivering the song’s classic themes of longing and heartbreak with a vulnerability that cuts deep. If Chet Baker’s cool-jazz version is the gold standard, Niia’s take is a bold departure—a farewell to tradition that still honors its roots.
The accompanying music video, directed by Dimitri Basil, is just as captivating. Shot at The Dresden in Los Angeles, it channels a noir-tinged, Lynchian vibe with a touch of Tarantino’s gritty edge. The visuals pull you into a moody, stylized world filled with intriguing characters and a narrative that feels just out of reach. It’s the kind of video you’ll want to watch again to catch every detail, perfectly complementing the song’s enigmatic allure.
Who Is Niia? A Boundary-Blurring Talent
For those new to Niia, she’s a Los Angeles-based artist whose music defies easy categorization. Classically trained on piano and formally studied in jazz vocals, Niia’s roots are firmly planted in jazz, but her sound weaves in elements of R&B, nu-jazz, and cinematic ambience. Her 2022 album Mouthful of Salt marked a turning point, with its introspective, oceanic vibe crafted in the haunting setting of her LA apartment—a converted church. Tracks from that project, along with her earlier works like I (2017), II: La Bella Vita (2020), and the If I Should Die EP (2021), have earned praise from outlets like Rolling Stone and Clash for their evocative, sensuous style.
Niia’s not just a solo act, though—she’s collaborated with heavyweights like Jazmine Sullivan, Gallant, and Boogie, proving her versatility and knack for connecting with other creatives. With “Angel Eyes,” she’s returning to her jazz foundations while pushing boundaries, showing why she’s a standout in today’s music scene. Her ability to blend genres and emotions makes her a must-listen for fans of artists like Norah Jones, Sade, or even modern jazztronica acts like BADBADNOTGOOD.
Why “Angel Eyes” Matters
In a world where jazz can sometimes feel stuck in the past, Niia’s “Angel Eyes” is a reminder that the genre is alive and evolving. The track taps into a growing trend in nu-jazz and jazztronica, where artists are reimagining traditional sounds with contemporary flair. Think of acts like Alfa Mist or Yussef Kamaal, who blend jazz with modern production to create something fresh yet soulful. Niia’s contribution to this movement is undeniable—she’s not just covering a classic; she’s rewriting its emotional blueprint.
The song’s release on Candid Records, a heritage jazz label, adds another layer of significance. It’s a nod to jazz’s storied history while signaling a new era for the genre. Whether you’re a longtime jazz fan or just dipping your toes into the genre, “Angel Eyes” is an accessible entry point that feels both familiar and groundbreaking.
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Final Thoughts
Niia’s “Angel Eyes” is more than a cover—it’s a bold reimagination that showcases her growth as an artist and her deep connection to jazz. With its haunting vocals, minimalist production, and cinematic video, this track is a must-listen for anyone who loves music that feels personal and profound. What do you think of Niia’s take on this classic? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear how it hits you!
