Montreal-based enigma Hua Li 化力 — the "half-Chinese, half-militant, half-rapper of your heart" and Exclaim! New Faves alum — has announced her sophomore album, previewed today by new single "Part Time Muses."
Produced by Alex Thibault (a.k.a. Gloze) and mixed by TNGHT's Lunice, ripe fruit falls but not in your mouth arrives March 27 via Next Door Records. It follows Hua Li's 2019 debut Dynasty, as well as 2020's Yellow Crane EP, and features recent single "Cherrier."
ripe fruit falls but not in your mouth is described in press notes as Hua Li's most ambitious and personal record to date, marrying hazy R&B, hip-hop, jazz and electronic influences with a libertine character inspired by Montreal's nightlife.
Likewise, the Yang Shi-directed video for "Part Time Muses" — an icy and delicate yet booming portal into Hua Li's world-building — sees the artist explore Plaza St. Hubert in her best prom attire. Check it out below, along with the full album tracklist.
ripe fruit falls but not in your mouth:
1. Born the Shape
2. In the Fall
3. Part Time Muses
4. Feed Me Petals (feat. Ambrose Getz)
5. Cherrier
6. Sanctions of the Heart
7. Whip Around (feat. Darkus Millon)
8. Innsbruck
9. Crop Up
10. Peonies