Album Review
Nia Smith - Payback Is A Dog
Payback is a bi... wait, a dog! Nia Smith finally returns with her long-awaited sophomore EP, Payback Is A Dog. The project feels like a natural continuation of the collection of songs she introduced back in 2024. Two years ago, the rising star released her debut EP Give Up The Fear, a project we at Clean were lucky enough to experience live. Seeing her support Elmiene on tour only cemented what we already knew: Nia Smith is the real deal. Her vocals are undeniable and her ability to write songs that feel both nostalgic and fresh is unmatched. The new release opens with the intro ‘Payback’, a perfectly crafted 1-minute-and-25-second opener that immediately sets the tone. A retro soul vocal welcomes us before handing the microphone to Nia. She glides over a vintage-inspired beat, keeping things subtle exactly as an introduction should. Next up is last year’s single ‘Limit’. Over an old-school, almost blues-inspired production, she sets the record straight with her lover. There is a limit to her love and perhaps it is finally time to admit this relationship simply was never meant to be. Where Give Up The Fear had ‘Personal’, Payback Is A Dog gives us ‘Hope In Us’. Sonically, the two could easily be siblings. A laid-back, reggae-infused groove carries deeply personal and vulnerable lyrics. Once again, the themes introduced on ‘Limit’ continue to unfold, leaving us wondering who managed to break Nia’s heart so completely. Whatever she went through, one day she will surely look back with a smile knowing it inspired some of her strongest songwriting yet. Nia’s artistry has been recognized ever since she began releasing music two years ago. Artists including Mahalia, SZA, Jorja Smith and Tems have all shown their support. It is no surprise, then, that ‘Stuntin’’ carries echoes of the artists who helped shape today’s R&B landscape. Make no mistake though, Nia is not copying anyone. Her voice is entirely her own. Its warm, rich tone reaches places few singers can, something that becomes especially clear on the stunning ballad ‘High’. By the time ‘Get My Get Back’ arrives, Nia finally seems to have let go of the relationship that no longer served her. No more wasting energy on someone incapable of loving her the way she deserves. Instead, she chooses herself. The confident, laid-back production perfectly reflects that shift in mindset. There is no need for soaring high notes or vocal gymnastics here. Calm, controlled and self-assured says far more. The EP’s only collaboration comes courtesy of Destin Conrad. Together, the pair remind us that it is okay to let our guard down every once in a while. There is no need to be hard on yourself all the time. Take a breath and allow yourself some kindness. We especially love how Nia leaves room for Destin to deliver one of his most relaxed performances to date. He never overpowers the song, instead elevating it with effortless chemistry. Once again, Nia Smith proves exactly why she is one of the most exciting names in modern R&B. With Payback Is A Dog, she continues building on the momentum of her debut while further establishing her own unmistakable identity. One thing is certain: as soon as she heads back out on tour, we will be front row once again.
