By Colin 
Nectar Woode steps further into the spotlight with it’s like i never left, a soul-rich EP that captures identity, emotion and creative freedom. Released on 18th July via Since93/RCA, the six-track project follows a busy summer that has seen Nectar perform at Glastonbury, sell out her Rough Trade in-store and record sessions for Dermot O’Leary and The Treehouse.
At the heart of the EP lies a personal journey. Lead single ‘When The Rain Stops’ premiered with Jack Saunders on BBC Radio 1 and marks a moment of clarity. “It’s the moment the mood shifts,” she explains. “You’re able to physically move forward from something.” That emotional shift runs through the entire record.
Inspired by her first trip to Ghana, Nectar explores her dual British-Ghanaian heritage with honesty and pride. She travelled to Accra and Aburi with her father earlier this year, seeking to connect with a part of her identity she had never experienced directly. That visit shaped both the songs and the spirit of the project. She channels this growth into ‘Only Happen’, a collaboration with Jordan Rakei, and ‘Ama Said’, which blends boom bap, soul and jazz while spotlighting her younger sister. Her father even plays saxophone on the track. Meanwhile, ‘LOSE’ features the Ghanaian collective SuperJazzClub, who welcomed her into their community during her visit.
A soundtrack for the soul
Described by Sunday Times Style as “the soundtrack of the summer,” it’s like i never left balances vulnerability with optimism. Tracks like ‘Light As A Feather’ offer delicate introspection, while ‘Home Again’ closes the EP with warmth and grace. Throughout, Nectar’s storytelling shines.
Her background shapes everything she creates. Growing up in Milton Keynes, she was surrounded by jazz, Highlife, art and fashion. Her home was filled with sound, thanks to her father’s record collection and her mother’s creativity. Local music rooms provided early inspiration, and London’s underground soul scene helped her refine her voice. This EP draws from all of those roots.
Review
it’s like i never left is Nectar Woode’s most complete project to date. Each track feels purposeful and personal. Rather than chase trends, she leans into her own voice and history, producing something that resonates deeply.
With this EP, Nectar Woode blends skill and sincerity. Her music uplifts, but never avoids emotional truth. She writes with care, sings with clarity, and delivers with confidence. Few artists offer this kind of depth so early in their career. Nectar makes it look effortless.