Storm Ford's Down Payment EP Is A Striking Analysis of Emotional Investments
Hailing from Providence, Rhode Island, Storm Ford is a singer-songwriter that is wonderfully one of a kind, and with an introspective sonic integrity that shines across her work (and incredible fashion sense, if you ask us). With the release of her EP Down Payment, Storm is on an exciting trajectory that also includes supporting R&B powerhouse Isaia Huron in New York City this past September.
Down Payment is an aptly-titled, heavy-hitting examination of our emotional investments. As Storm alludes on her Instagram, it’s not just about the financial outlay, but the “time, energy and love!” that we pour into our relationship, and lay out the receipts of each emotional transaction.
Starting with “All The Way,” a highlight of the project, and a heartfelt track that woefully cradles the line between passionate and devotion, and brings us right into our feels midway through the chorus. “I’m choosing you as you are//I would travel anywhere, as long as you are the one to take me there.” Storm’s velvety vocalization pairs against a timeless, elevated production that pays homage to prominent artists such as Ari Lennox, Mary J. Blige and Summer Walker - all artists that Ford has secured songwriting credits for. In essence, Down Payment is blunt and unapologetic, with svelte vocals and striking lyricism propelling the 8-track narrative.
“Trying” is a freestyle that is Storm speaking straight from the heart. Flipping the narrative of “All The Way” into realism, and throughout the track is a push-and-pull between cynicism and optimism during a period of healing. Opening with the striking observations: “Believed in, one too many lies and fell for one too many times//Passions come and go//Leave me open and alone.” This feels like a post-mortem that every listener has faced. But Storm surprises us, incorporating a gleam of hope echoing a resilient mantra. ““Lord knows I’m trying to love again.” Accompanied with a light-hearted music video, “Trying” strikes the balance of unseriously taking itself seriously, and reminds listeners that even in heartbreak, we will shine again.
With the release of Down Payment, Storm Ford has established herself with a distinct sonic and creative identity in emerging R&B. Needless to say, we’re excited to see where the singer-songwriter heads next.
