JoJo, “NGL.”

It has been quite the creative renaissance for pop-singer-turned-best-selling-author Joanna “JoJo” Levesque. Levesque found early success, overcoming depression and addiction at home before falling into a years-long battle with a record label that essentially froze her career for years. With that in the past, Levesque has released three albums since 2020, and now, an EP on her own label imprint, NGL.

A layered vocal intro track leads into the slickly funky groove of “Nobody,” which busts out of the gate with soulful energy. The song sounds organic and raw, at least by modern pop standards.

“I’ve been humble way too long,” Levesque declares.

Her vocals are smokey and deep, with a tightly delivered rap cadence in the second verse. Don’t sleep on Levesque’s vocal prowess; she shows off a dynamic range and impressive strength. “Too Much Say” leans more into a soul sound with a dramatic call and response chorus and a dark and moody vibe.

“I’m selfish with my time now/ Is it OK if I cry now?,” she asks on the introspective and biting track.

Pulsing clubby track “Porcelain” hits with a soft touch while upping the pace with a lighting-quick beat and synth-heavy arrangement. She returns to the song at the end of the EP, this time stripped down to just piano and voice. This version is simple, personal and the most poignant moment on NGL.

“Now I’m stronger than I’ve ever been” she sings, a fitting booked to a work dedicated to the struggle of facing down challenges.

“Ready to Love” slows things down to a beat-heavy, synth-driven jam, riding a groove.

Slow-burning “Start Over” leans more toward pop, lightly infusing some of the EP’s organic arrangements and a bluesy guitar solo during the final chorus. The vocal harmonies are tight and the chorus is infectious.

“I guess I threw up just a little/ When I had to sit down with my ego,” she sings.

“One Last Time” is a divine clash of synth-infused pop and groove-driven soul music. Levesque’s vocals shine throughout, but really stand out on this song’s quiet moments. Sure, JoJo is able to belt, but even when she reins things in, the results are still positive.

The vocals are expertly delivered and the resilience is reflected in the vulnerability of the song. NGL may only be a quick stop toward the next endeavor for Levesque, but all signs point to a very exciting and creatively gratifying road ahead.

Follow writer Mike DeWald at mikedewald.bsky.social.