Selections: Private Joy

When it came to finding a stimulus for her debut solo EP, Pops Roberts (aka Private Joy) knew exactly where to look. “Desire has been the drive and beginning of so many decisions, highs and lows in life,” she shares, cultivating a deep well of experience from which the Manchester-based producer, vocalist and composer can draw. As such, Roberts’ latest project for Rhythm Section – ‘Desire!’ – unfolds like a collection of diary entries; intimate sketches and personal anecdotes transformed into warm, soulful jams through the language of synths, harps, saxophones, crisp beats and Roberts’ inimitable dulcet tones.

The influence of Manchester’s storied street soul scene of the late ’80s to mid-’90s is undeniable, especially on the shuffling and sensuous, ‘Pure Love’, featuring local rapper Meduulla, yet there’s room here for all of Roberts’ musical influences to shine. From the downbeat dreamscapes of ‘Playful’ – “an ode to appreciating the enjoyment of a friendship” – and the jazzy balladry of the title cut, to the silky smooth strings and throwback R&B textures of ‘Let Love Find A Way’, the EP is nothing short of celestial. You can treat yourself to a listen here.

Roberts’ storytelling prowess comes as little surprise when you zoom out on her resume. As well as fronting Manchester soul band Lovescene, she’s recently collaborated on tracks with Manchester heavyweights including Ruf Dug, Finn, and Lenzman under her Private Joy alias. Whatever she’s doing, though, you get the feeling that she’ll do it with a smile on her face – and it’s impossible not to wear your own when diving into her discography. For this week’s Selections, Roberts spotlights an assortment of summer faves, from smooth-as-butter groovers and rolling deep house jams, to sun-kissed R&B anthems.