Adriane Pontecorvo: With the help of Loyle Carner’s laid-back rapping and some well-placed horns and handclaps, Tom Misch brings us the chill-out track we need to make it through the end of winter. Sensitive lyrics and gentle grooves have a soulful feel to what could be – but adamantly isn’t – a cookie cutter pop track. There’s a jazzy flow to that melody that keeps “Water Baby” warm and intriguing, and the retro influences here show Misch at his finest. [9/10]
Ed Turner: Once you get accustomed to UK artist Tom Misch rapping in his thick Scouse accent, this is a surprisingly sturdy piece of work. And catchy, too – the R&B inflected grooves, and creamy background vocals, remind one of Earth, Wind, and Fire. Certainly, Misch owes a debt of gratitude to George Michael’s 1996 single, “Fast Love”; “Water Baby” opens with the same hypnotic, pulsing synth line, conjuring urban cityscapes and downtown raves. ” I was born a water baby / Swimming with these times,” Misch sings. A song to get lost in. I’m with you, baby. [8/10]
John Garratt: If the purpose of the upside-down camera shots was to disorient me, then mission accomplished. All that ice is making me nervous as well. I will now give the song another listen without watching the video. The beats feel thin but can still set your toes in motion. The (supposed) theme of water guarantees that the song is as unobtrusive as a babbling brook. Carner’s rap neither makes nor breaks the track. I’m digging the horn part, as unimaginative as it is (which reminds me, what’s Greyboy up to these days?). Overall, “Water Baby” lacks a strong center, leading me to believe that Misch’s best work can be found elsewhere. [6/10]
SCORE: 7.67