Since releasing her debut EP 'The Way' in 2021, Raquel Martins has been making an impact on the UK music landscape with her blend of Latin-infused alt-soul. Her new project 'Empty Flower' is a natural evolution of her sound, with added layers of intricate arrangement and sophisticated production.

Raised under the sun in Portugal before moving to the UK in 2017, her music sits at the intersection of modern jazz and soul, reminiscent of Nai Palm, Jordan Rakei and Oscar Jerome. A celebrated guitarist and session musician in her own right, she's also performed extensively with Amaarae and Poppy Ajudha. Her debut EP drew substantial support from tastemakers like Gilles Peterson, Jamie Cullum and Dan Digs (KCRW), with Gilles inviting Raquel to perform at We Out Here Festival in summer 2022.

The forthcoming EP 'Empty Flower' is a deeply vulnerable record, touching on topics such as identity and gender roles, and reflecting upon what it is to be a woman in our society. Although bedroom produced by Raquel, the size and scope of the EP is expansive, featuring lush string and horn arrangements that compliment Raquel's authentic Brazilian-flavoured songwriting.

The first single from the project 'Fragile Eyes' incorporates vibrant instrumentation with warm infectious grooves. Raquel's dulcet vocals glide atop the arrangement, complemented by detailed production and arrangement flourishes. It delves into the topic of toxic masculinity and competition within a relationship due to traditional gender stereotypes.

Raquel sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

I guess my family is very much into music, but the only person who actually played any instruments in my family was my grandpa from my dad's side. Growing up in Portugal, we used to spend a lot of time listening to Brazilian music, Cuban music, and jazz together. He had an old guitar from the 20s laying around the house and by the time I was 7 I started picking it up and playing with it and I guess it all went from there.

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

Lianne La Havas has been a big influence especially as she is a female guitarist as well, which is something that I didn't see a lot growing up, so I would love to make some music with her at some point.

3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?

I'm about to drop the first single from my new EP which feels very exciting. I produced it all in my bedroom and got to have a lot of my friends playing on it, which makes it extra special.

4. How would you describe your sound?

I like to think of my music as a crossover/blend of many different genres with strong brazilian music influence.

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

Probably opening for Marcos Valle, listened to his music so much whilst growing up and I know it’s something that would have made my grandpa very proud too!

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

As cliche as it sounds just be authentic and commit to your sound as much as you can. It's so easy to look at what others are doing, but if you want longevity you should always stick to what's true to you.

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

If you haven't already you should check out Tim Bernardes, an amazing singer and composer from São Paulo, and his band too "O Terno". Beautiful arrangements and production.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

Moses Sumney-Grae, Marcos Valle - Contrasts.

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

I feel like I spend most of my time making music, but when I’m not I love reading history and psychology, going to exhibitions, longboarding, and hanging out with my friends.

10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?

My nylon guitar, percussion, and lemon and ginger tea always!