From crate digging to record store retail, audio engineering to radio, Hayley J. has gone it alone from day one, taking her time to hone musical skills that form like Voltron on her debut EP.

You Are Not Who You Know cooks down the ingredients of a self-served musical education into six slices of future soul, Hayley’s smooth vocals teamed with jazz-infused head nods courtesy of US producers J. Rawls (Black Star, Lone Catalysts) and Usef Dinero (J-Live, Raheem DeVaughan) & hungarian producer Illegalvoice. On the local tip, Luke B (Dj Orphan) chips in on beat duties and Coco Solid delivers a trademark chutzpah-heavy verse on the EP’s title track.

Don’t get it twisted – this supporting cast of local and international talent don’t define Hayley J. Hansell. Game recognises game and J.Rawls and co have recognised the understated determination behind her music, offering up their own skills to bring Hayley J’s singular musical vision to life.

Hayley J. Hansell is a hustler and a starter in this music game and You Are Not Who You Know marks the first chapter of lessons she’s accumulated to this point in time. Dropping November 23rd 2009 on the newly inked All City imprint, the EP points the way forward to a long player due mid-2010.

by Sam Wicks