elle J. – 27 CRISIS (Album Review)

elle j. makes a stunning debut with emotionally rich EP ‘.27 CRISIS.’

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TOP 3 SONGS

3. xoxo forever yours

“XOXO Forever Yours” is the final track on the five-song EP. The song follows elle j. as she reminisces about her lover—someone who sees her in the highest light (sometimes hyping her up more than she ever could herself) and makes her feel childlike and playful. This person brings out the best in her and makes every day feel like heaven. The smooth, slow R&B track feels like a daydream—floaty and serene—making it the perfect song to relax to and relate with.

2. dreamer’s interlude

“Dreamer’s Interlude” is a shorter, slower, and airier alternative R&B track with touches of soul. It’s filled with gorgeous vocal runs and lush instrumentals that showcase elle j.’s tone and range. The entire song feels like a daydream, radiating introspective thoughts and a soothing energy. At its core, it’s about finding peace within yourself and coming to terms with both the good and the bad—reaping what you sow.

1. tissues

“Tissues” is a slow, melancholic track about vulnerability and the courage to let go. Bittersweet in tone, it explores themes of second chances and opening yourself up to love—even when fear stands in the way. elle j. paints a vivid picture with intricate storytelling, and her smooth, airy vocals carry the emotion of the song beautifully. It’s a heartfelt, expressive piece that lingers with the listener.

SONG BY SONG RATING

1. only with time (Remix) (3.5/5)

2. dreamer’s interlude (4/5)

3. flying by (3.5/5)

4. tissues (4/5)

5. xoxo forever yours (4/5)

RGM RATING

(76%)

elle j.’s debut EP, .27 CRISIS was released on July 30th. Though it features only five tracks, each one reveals a different side of the artist and finds a way to draw you in. There’s something in every song that’s easy to resonate with, and you can feel elle j.’s emotions in every note.

The EP leans heavily into alternative R&B, with hints of neo-soul woven throughout the instrumentals. Nothing about this project feels cold, rough, or overly heavy—instead, each track flows in a smooth, buttery way. elle j.’s tone is uniquely soft and featherlight, and her airy moments hit just as powerfully as her belts and intricate runs.

Overall, elle j. is an artist to keep an eye on. .27 CRISIS is a strong, cohesive debut worth replaying more than once. Her sound fits her beautifully, and I can’t wait to see what she delivers next.