7/10

After releasing her heavily-praised debut album 'For All We Know' back in 2016, London's Nao quickly made a name for herself as one of the most captivating and experimental names in RnB today. Her unique style of production mixed with a striking vocal performance enabled her to stand out from the busy crowd and deliver something that turned more heads than she could have imagined. Now with her second studio album 'Saturn', the frontwoman is looking to be reborn as someone giving up the emotions and stresses of past relationships and situations, and moving further ahead in her chosen sound.

The name 'Saturn' is a reference to the planet's orbital journey, which usually takes 27-29 years, before beginning its next cycle around the sun. As someone who has now reached this age in her own life, she believes than now is the time to begin again and let go of the former intentions that dominated her heartfelt debut. Singles such as 'Another Lifetime', 'Make It Out Alive' and 'If You Ever' are the best reflection of this new ambition, as she presents herself as a more confident frontwoman, reassured in her own direction and delivering a record that sees her more inspired than ever.

It may not have that initial hit-factor that her debut LP had, but 'Saturn' still manages to intrigue at almost every turn. Nao has taken a brave stance with her sound on this new full-length, and it has paid off wholeheartedly. A strong and determined return with all the hallmarks of a truly inspired songwriter at the helm.