Puma Blue is the alias of Jacob Allen, a London-based singer, songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist. His work is associated with gothic, jazz pop, pop and pop soul, and his music also draws on R&B, jazz and hip hop.

Allen develops much of his material himself at home, using a bedroom-based approach that gives the recordings a lo-fi character. His singing is described as dynamic and emotive, and his wider presentation includes a distinct visual style. The music has also been characterised as “voicemail-ballads”.

Career

Puma Blue first draws attention with the 2014 SoundCloud bedroom demo Only Trying 2 Tell U. He then builds a following through live shows in London and online, with particular support from listeners drawn to his intimate, low-key sound.

His debut EP, Swum Baby, is independently released in 2017. After that, he issues two standalone singles on Blue Flowers. His second EP, Blood Loss, follows in 2018 and comprises eight tracks arranged as a continuous, circular sequence.

Live work and collaborators

On stage, Puma Blue most often performs with a band. The live arrangements emphasise watery textures and groove-based rhythms influenced by J Dilla. His voice is compared with Jeff Buckley and Chet Baker.

He comes out of the south-east London music scene and works with friends and peers including Lucy Lu, Biig Piig and Lava La Rue. He also cites D'Angelo, Radiohead and John Frusciante among his major influences.

Other names

Allen also records under the names Ruby Bliels and Boss Nass, although there are no official releases under those aliases.