Projective's “Question” is a feathery, mature offering of soaring neo-soul

Recorded with long-time collaborator Kealan Kenny, “Question” presents a soothing melody that unwinds into something more intense, a feeling of uncertainty and hopelessness. The layered, echoey opening line – “What else can I do?” – deepens the tension between waves of urgency and surrender. It’s a distinct blend of vibrant, energetic jazz with striking lyrical intimacy.

“Question” has been stowed away in Projective’s canon for several years, born from long writing sessions with all seven members: Leanne Curtin (vocals), Ciara Stacey (vocals), Diamond Nzekwe (vocals/trumpet), Cian Harris (guitar), Michael Riordan (bass), and Daniel Brazil (drums). “The chorus section came first,” Projective tells BEST FIT. “We wanted to contrast the fullness with some sparse verses that had intimate and personal lyrics.”

Writing the song as a complete collective is a rare occurrence for the band. That’s why “Question” shines; the song melts like butter with its blend of artistic input. “I remember when we landed the pre-chorus melody, and from then on it felt like we were onto a winner,” Projective adds.

Cork’s thriving music scene continues to fuel the band’s creativity. “Cork punches so far above its weight in terms of an original music scene. You can find quality music in almost any genre coming out of Cork.”Among their peers, Syano and Smithereens are “killing it at the moment,” the band believes.

Musically, Projective draws from a rich palette of influences. The use of double tracked guitars and keys in “Question” is meticulous, with floaty vocals filling the gaps, evoking an echo of 90s jazz and hip-hop. “As always, there's a heavy Glasper influence on this one, especially in terms of keys,” Projective muse. “For drums and bass, we are always referencing The Roots, Chris Dave and Pino Palladino. Ezra Collective are another inspiration for us too.”

With a series of sold out headline shows across Ireland in their first year of gigging, including Cork Opera House’s Green Room, Projective have quickly built a reputation as one of the new live bands on the scene. In terms of what’s coming next, the band say you’ll have to wait and see: “We've got more music coming! It’s top secret at the moment, but it should be with you all sooner than you think.”