Prolific Malaysian singer-songwriter Lyia Meta has returned with her latest album, “NEXT,” following the immense success and critical acclaim of her award-winning 2023 release, “Always You.” Lyia Meta’s unique vocal prowess, which evokes shades of Cher, Bonnie Raitt, Sade, and Linda Ronstadt, takes center stage in “NEXT,” released today, July 26. This album represents a significant milestone for Lyia and her collaborators, captivating her growing fanbase with its authentic energy and atypical authenticity.
“NEXT” is a testament to Lyia Meta’s evolution as an artist while embracing fresh interpretations and delving into emotional depths. Building upon her past work, this album serves as a testament to her artistic progression and showcases the culmination of her musical journey. Guided by her voice, Lyia takes listeners on a serendipitous exploration crafted by the convergence of various factors that have brought her to this significant juncture. Collaborating with Los Angeles songwriter Denise Dimin, as well as her incredible team consisting of producer Bob McGilpin and co-producer Gene Rabbai, Lyia embarks on the next chapter of her musical career, ready to embrace new possibilities and share her evolving story with the world.
Fans will immediately notice a deepening of content and structure in “NEXT,” as Lyia and co-songwriter Denise Dimin further unleash Lyia’s already incredible vocal capacity. Teased on Spotify ahead of the album release, one of the standout tracks, “Home to You,” introduces a surprising change in genre, infusing a new junkyard country style that beautifully complements Lyia’s smooth jazz compositions and breathy vocalization reminiscent of Sade or Amy Winehouse. While “NEXT” offers a diverse range of genres, including lounge jazz in songs like “All My Loving,” Lyia, Rabbai, and McGilpin have skillfully explored every musical avenue available to create a fresh and varied compilation that showcases Lyia’s vocal versatility and musical prowess.
Reflecting on her musical journey, Lyia Meta shares, “As I look back on my past work, I realize that my music has always reflected who I am. It’s a mirror that reveals my experiences, my emotions, my aspirations. With each new song, I’ve sought to capture the essence of my being and share it with the world.”
“NEXT” represents a deeply personal and highly anticipated project for Lyia Meta and songwriter Denise Dimin. With Lyia’s already impressive list of awards and accolades, “NEXT” serves as a definitive artistic statement and a truly Grammy-worthy release. This album stands as a testament to Lyia’s dedication and talent, marking a significant milestone in her career.
