Isabelle Mettle has her finger on the button with “CMD”, a five track EP that puts creative control firmly in her hands. The 23 year old North London singer, songwriter and producer moves between pop, neo soul, funk, jazz and gospel, exploring self love, sexuality, healing and vulnerability. Taking its name from the keyboard abbreviation for “Command”, the project makes her position clear: she is calling the shots, and nobody is borrowing the mouse.

At its emotional centre sits “STAINED GLASS”, her first ballad and a moment built for the spotlight. Inspired by Prince’s “Purple Rain” and D’Angelo’s “Untitled (How Does It Feel)”, the song explores the awkward dance between craving love and keeping your guard firmly up. Full ensemble arrangements, stirring horns and gospel, blues and jazz influences provide the setting for a vocal performance that climbs into her whistle register. Bring tissues, possibly a spare pair.

The accompanying video keeps things close to home. Directed by her father, Duke Mettle, its simple approach places Isabelle’s performance front and centre. With Duke having introduced her to D’Angelo, the visual homage carries an especially personal connection.

Released through Sunday Best Recordings, “CMD” also features “GOOD IN ME”, “HEAD IN THE CLOUDS”, “READ THE ROOM” and “U GOT ME”. Support includes BBC Radio 1, COLORS, CLASH and DJ Spoony on BBC Radio 2, building on the foundations of her earlier EPs “Equinox” and “Changes”.

Mettle has already attracted admirers including Erykah Badu and Snarky Puppy. As part of The Flames Collective, she has provided backing vocals for RAYE at the Royal Albert Hall, The BRIT Awards and Reading & Leeds Festival. Now, with “CMD” and a headline show at London’s The Social, her own artistic identity takes centre stage. The command is hers, and this chapter gives listeners plenty to get acquainted with.