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Photo by Henry Wainwright

Phoenix Laoutaris has somehow transformed the anxiety-ridden, uncomfortable almost-lover's tension into a soulful, desirable song. “About You” naturally embellishes romantic longing — and the uncertainty that comes with it — with sparkling saxophones, velvety vocals and a quiet confidence that leaks into every note.

Since first breaking through with her 2021 debut single, “Flower,” Totnes-born singer-songwriter and MC Phoenix Laoutaris has steadily proved her place in the music scene that’s entirely her own. Initially recognized for mixing the grit of drill with the raw openness of R&B, Laoutaris has continued on her path to becoming an artist whose sound sits comfortably within alternative soul, without sacrificing the vulnerability that first set her apart. Brought up in a musical family — with a professional violinist mother and a multi-instrumentalist father — music has proven to be a passionate foundation for her, and perfectly placed as well considering her talents as both a songwriter and vocalist. That same sense of musicality and self-assurance is unmistakable on her latest single, “About You.”

Laoutaris’s voice drapes over the track like a silky curtain, carrying the fluidness of neo-soul while intertwining it with a few modern sonic touches. The result is something that feels both fresh and an homage, where timeless influences meet a modern perspective. There’s an effortless confidence laced into every moment, from the smooth vocal runs to the jazz instrumental breaks, even echoing the carefree n’ cool visuals she’s been teasing on social media. Every creative choice feels intentional, yet never overworked or overcomplicated.

From the opening moments of the track, the snaps are inviting, with the warmth of the instrumentals making you snap along to their subtle pull. They create a groove that quietly leads you into the musical atmosphere before you even realize it, allowing the intimacy of the songwriting to seep in. When Laoutaris sings, “I know everything about you / I can never show you all that you mean to me,” the vulnerability lands with a bittersweetness that’s almost impossible not to connect to in some way. It wavers on the line between sweet and sensual, much like the relationship itself, balancing the comforting familiarity of friends becoming lovers with the uncertainty of the future of these feelings.

The instrumental arrangement is just as expressive as the lyrics, revelling in the brightness and vitality of jazz while keeping the grounding rhythm of the R&B energy. Towards the end of the song, an almost secret guitar riff slips into the mix — already urging the listener closer to the edge of their seat — before dipping into a striking saxophone solo. This gives the movement-inducing instrument an organic, unhurried spotlight that exemplifies a genuine passion for the arrangement that can be felt from beginning to end, elevating the feeling without overpowering it. 

“About You” embraces the hushed anticipation of friends-to-lovers, exploring the bruising internal yearning that comes from wanting romance with a person who already gives you a sense of home. Every lingering glance and unspoken feeling burns bright in the track, and Laoutaris maintains such a strong sense of self and personal expression throughout “About You,” creating a natural eagerness to hear what’s next in her musical journey for anyone who listens.

Listen to "About You" below: