VanJess

Nostalgia is a tricky little thing. Most artists settle for a sly nod to a previous decade for a single and it’s cute and cheeky. Other artists try, musically, to live in that time period, ends up sounding derivative or campy. VanJess, however, is the rare artist that has a deep retro influence. but makes it sound entirely natural - as if this was the music they were always meant to make, it just happens to be inspired by the 90’s. Their music, unequivocally inspired by 90’s hip-hop and R&B, is so well done and filled with their own identity, it’s almost wholesome. It feels fresh and new, but the nostalgia that overflows out of each track feels more like reliving a wonderful memory made better by living the life you’ve lived. Like drinking a smooth vintage wine that, for whatever reason, reminds you of nights sipping on Ecto-Cooler with friends, MTV on in the background. This is not to say VanJess eschews the present and future just to keep looking back. Modern production choices and creative new beat work lay the foundation for a truly delightful musical experience.

VanJess, the duo comprised of sisters Ivana and Jessica Nwokike, started producing their own music in their bedrooms. Originally doing covers, they started to gain a following and decided to release original music. Their newest album, 2021’s “Homegrown”, felt like a return their beginnings, with the album largely being written in their home studios during the pandemic. However much influence from the past the duo may take, their music reminds you to be here in the moment.