Jessi has been on a roll these past few years. Ever since joining P Nation, her music has felt more confident and focused, taking advantage of her skills as both a rapper and vocalist. I wasn’t immediately sold with 2020’s Nunu Nana, but that song ended up being a major grower. Last year’s What Type Of X was an instant hit. New single Zoom isn’t as unique or ear-catching, but its steady groove and fun performance build upon Jessi’s strengths.

The song’s ”zoom in, zoom out” concept fits well with Jessi’s energy. It might be a bit cheesy coming from anyone else, but her confidence sells the track. The beat is anchored by a catchy synth loop, which descends and ascends in a seesawing structure that gives Zoom plenty of movement. It’s the kind of loop that could easily wear out its welcome, but the production modulates just enough throughout the song to keep things fresh. I especially enjoy the melodic pre-chorus where the instrumental switches gears and Jessi’s performance softens.

Zoom’s chorus won’t be for everyone. I’m not even sure it’s for me! The hook is definitely repetitive and has the potential to grate. For now, I think it works – largely due to the interplay between Jessi’s voice and that playful synth. The verses are more exciting, offering a variety of sounds and percussion. In the end, Zoom is an enjoyable head-nodder, buoyed by its strong personality and willingness not to take itself too seriously.