Kimbra – “Sweet Relief” (Singles Going Steady)

Adriane Pontecorvo: Retro, fun, and unabashedly sexy. Kimbra sings, squeals, and shouts, possessed by the spirit of a low-key disco diva. She’s all over the place in the best way, as strange as she is sultry on this electric downtempo track. Whether whispering or growling, Kimbra’s voice is always powerful, and here, it may even be at its strongest, a warm blend of soul, jazz, and pop. Everything from handclaps to oohs melts together, and it’s a hedonistic kind of heavenly. [10/10]

Andrew Paschal: Kimbra sounds loose and relaxed here, her vocals riding effortlessly over a smooth funk sound, never afraid to break out of their mold for a stray yelp or squeal of delight. “Sweet Release” isn’t necessarily the most remarkable or groundbreaking piece of music in its genre, but this song likely doesn’t care much about that, its primary currency being in the realm of the physical. [7/10]

Paul Carr: It’s extremely hard to get sexy right. Done badly it can come across with all the eroticism of a breathless crank caller. This, on the other hand, is so seductive you might be tempted to attempt a relationship with your speakers. Built on squelchy keyboards and sultry vocals this is pure filth. It’s also fantastic. [9/10]

Chris Ingalls: Dig those wacked out retro synth patches. There’s plenty of sonic candy to chew on here, and Kimbra is definitely channeling Prince with the catchy keyboard riffs and the confident strut. It’s a deft, smart dance track. [7/10]

Scott Zuppardo: Ultra tasty funkypop from Kimbra, the production is super tight with Kimbra flowing above and below the track with a leavening effect. Sexy stuff, fresh and cool. [7/10]

SCORE: 8.00