Browsing Tag

Contemporary Rnb

Victorrio came in hot & heavy with his alt-RnB debut, I Would Never

Victorrio’s debut single, I Would Never, marks a compelling entrance into the alt-RnB scene. He came in hot and heavy with the narrative journey which bares his battle scars and weaves through the complexities of romantic turmoil with a finesse that belies his newcomer status.

It’s a genre-defying piece, effortlessly melding elements of stylised soul with a trappy backbeat and pop-inflected production. The brooding effects that add layers of depth and intrigue will undoubtedly resonate with fans of The Weeknd, yet Victorrio carved out his own niche within this familiar territory while exploring the darker side of love. If you’ve ever been burned in ways that leave you perplexed by a romantic partner’s capacity for ruthless malevolence, I Would Never is the ultimate aural salve for heartless iniquity.

To make I Would Never even more affecting, his voice, smooth yet commanding, delivers each line with an alchemic mix of vulnerability and strength and each verse unravels as an intimate vignette. By using his experimentalism as a narrative device which mirrors the track’s tormented thematic elements, I Would Never became haunting and alluring, innovative and introspective in equal measure. Naturally, we can’t wait to hear what follows.

I Would Never was officially released on February 9th; stream the single on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Thai chi Rosè prescribed the ultimate aural aphrodisiac with her latest contemporary RnB hit, Cumfort

Thai chi Rosè’s latest single, ‘Cumfort‘ blends the sensuous rhythms of R&B with a bold, contemporary edge. The track is a masterful concoction of the exotic and the erotic and an aural aphrodisiac that resonates with the pulse of modern soul.

Rosè’s vocal prowess is undeniable, weaving through the track with empoweringly alluring confidence. Her ability to assert herself through her lyrics, reminiscent of the edginess found in Cardi B’s work, is balanced with a nod to the style and soul of Aaliyah. Meanwhile, the production of ‘Cumfort’ is a labyrinth of intricate rhythms, each beat meticulously crafted to complement Rosè’s vocal lines. The track does not just play; it pulsates, drawing listeners into its hypnotically steamy flow.

As the firebrand of contemporary RnB continues to captivate audiences worldwide and rack up millions of streams, she proves that her music is not just for the moment – it’s for the ages.

Cumfort was officially released on February 23; stream the single on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Ty Ellenbogen unveiled the heart of modern RnB with ‘Stolen Time’

Ty Ellenbogen’s latest single and seminal piece of his Day by Day EP is a contemporary continuation of the ever-evolving RnB genre, which carries all the timeless soul of the greats. In Stolen Time, the singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer’s evocative vocal range shines as the melodious jazzy neo-pop instrumentals groove, shimmer, and envelop you in swathes of kaleidoscopic colour.

If The Weeknd, Drake and Frank Ocean are always in rotation on your playlists, you’ll easily accommodate this slick-with-innovation release that makes no bones about cutting to the candourous core of his bitter-sweet lament on investing in someone intent on deceiving their way through the dating pool.

The 20-year-old Nashville-hailing RnB Pop artist has been cutting his teeth in the music industry for the past 12 years and writing and recording original music for the past three. With his debut EP, he did more than prove to be a force to be reckoned with; he gave you a reason to fall head over sonic heels.

Stolen Time was officially released on February 23; stream the single and EP on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Parker Kay – The Grey: a refreshingly intimate RnB exposition of affection in the age of the iPhone

If artists got to the top of the charts based on the relatability of their lyrics alone, Vancouver’s Parker Kay’s latest single, The Grey, would have shot right to the top of the RnB charts. In a genre that gives Hollywood a run for its money when it comes to setting unrealistic expectations, this definitively modern love story is a refreshingly intimate exposition of affection in the age of the iPhone and awareness of idiosyncratic attachment styles.

Starting with a confession of how he pretends not to light up just as much as his screen when seeing a message and bides his time to give the illusion he’s busy, you can’t help but lyrically lock into the hit as the indie RnB grooves pop in the instrumental arrangement.

The single only becomes more addictive from there on out as Parker Kay bares his romantic scars over the synthesis of electronic synthetics, trap beats, pop hooks, RnB melodies, and soulfully magnetic vocal lines that keep an even-keel while the lyricism drifts from the ache of agony to the dream-like state of infatuation.

The Grey has a fair way to go before it racks up as many streams as Parker Kay’s viral hit, sorry, I like you too, which was created in collaboration with Burbank and garnered over 5 million streams on Spotify alone, but it is more than worthy.

The Grey was officially released on January 26th. Stream the single on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Amoré The Songstress & Kolby Cordell showcased synchronicity of the soul in ‘Date Night’

Amoré The Songstress & Kolby Cordell gave the ultimate 101 on how to keep the spark alive in their collaborative contemporary soul release, Date Night, which busts the myth that dates are only for people trying to lock down a relationship.

As the smoothly impassioned gospel-esque lyrical delivery elucidates, there’s no better way of showing appreciation to your partner than putting them on your arm and giving them attention undivided by the distractions that deplete connections.

The dynamism between Amoré The Songstress & Kolby Cordell in the release couldn’t be stronger as they work together to paint a portrait of romantic idealism over the wavy layers of soul-infused lush reverb. Amorousness oozes from every euphonic pore in this superlative Valentine’s Day hit; yet, the alchemic duo grounded Date Night in a sense of realism, ensuring that by the time the intro rolls around, you won’t be left with a wanton desire for unrealistic expectations.

Date Night debuted on January 26th; stream it on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Supa Philly – PERCOLATE: A Retro RnB Revival with a Modern Heartbeat

Supa Philly, a band seasoned by decades of musical evolution, returned with their latest single, PERCOLATE, a track that masterfully interweaves the vibrant essence of ’80s synth-pop, funk, and disco into the fabric of R&B.

The song’s essence, deeply rooted in political inspiration, resonates with a message of love and unity, a beacon of hope in today’s fragmented world. Its lyrics, “Life is short… No more hate… Show your love… Percolate,” echo as a mantra for our times, urging listeners to embrace a brighter, more harmonious path.

Supa Philly’s rich heritage, having shared the limelight with legends like Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Monkees, infuses PERCOLATE with a depth and authenticity rarely found in modern music. The blend of experienced voices with fresh, dynamic tones creates a vocal synergy that is both stirring and soulful.

The honed songwriting chops lend a refined yet spirited character to the track as the production melds classic synth lines with contemporary rhythms, crafting a soundscape that is both nostalgically familiar and thrillingly new. The gospel-influenced backing vocals add a layer of majestic depth, reminiscent of the soulful echoes of R&B greats.

As we eagerly await their upcoming release, ANOTHER FOOL (On a Hill), it’s evident that Supa Philly continues to redefine the boundaries of music. This track is an essential listen for those seeking a rejuvenating musical experience and a reminder of the enduring power of unity and love.

Get into the groove with PERCOLATE via Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Nikki Hayes proves the power of vulnerability in her sensually captivating RnB evolution, SAFE

Nikki Hayes‘ latest RnB single, SAFE, showcases her unique ability to blend soulful vocals with a rich, resonant soundscape. It’s an aural revelation that resonates deeply with the listener, cutting to the core of the emotions it explores.

From the outset, SAFE captivates with its dreamy yet potent composition. The basslines, infused with a rich funk, provide a robust foundation that complements the ethereal quality of the track. This fusion of dreaminess with funk creates a soundscape that is both soothing and invigorating. The addition of blues-infused guitars adds another layer to the song, enhancing its emotional depth and complexity.

Hayes’ vocal performance is nothing short of enchanting. Her voice, both powerful and delicate, conveys a paradoxically beguiling sense of vulnerability and strength. The lyrics, which speak of finding safety in the arms of another in a chaotic world, are delivered with a sensuality and sincerity that is truly captivating.

Drawing inspiration from legends like Beyonce, Stevie Wonder, and Toni Braxton, Hayes has carved out a distinct sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Her journey from the basements of Chicago to collaborating with Grammy-winning artists is evident in the polished quality of SAFE. The track stands as a testament to her fearless work ethic, vocal finesse, and unwavering passion for music.

As she continues to evolve and captivate audiences with her unique sound, Nikki Hayes is undoubtedly an artist to watch.

SAFE was officially released on November 29. Stream it on Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

East London RnB Luminary 8rii became the Queen of Headstrong Hedonism with ‘T.O.T.Y’

East London’s hottest independent RnB artist 8rii fuelled some fire into the genre with her latest single, T.O.T.Y, which fuses a gritty production with a solid backbeat to keep your rhythmic pules kicking and swathes of soul which spill from the earwormy vocal melodies.

Between encapsulating the East London attitude and searing her infectious sonic signature, 8rii ensured she established herself as one to watch with T.O.T.Y (the Time of the Year).

Since the age of 15, the songwriter has been crafting her own inexplicably fresh and fiery tunes, driven by a deep-rooted passion for music, showmanship, and the thrill of performance. So far, her discography is as versatile as they come. Whether she’s amping her audience up for a night of hedonism or setting the tone for introversion and self-care, her lyrical prowess always hits the mark while she tracks various eras of RnB.

After a whirlwind year, her latest single is set to close the year on a note as high as the track itself which captures the empowering liberation of embracing life’s journey and taking the rough with the smooth.

TOTY will be released on November 27, stream it on Spotify, and keep up to date with all new releases via Instagram.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Nyasia Chane’l narrated a story of love and longing in her latest Neo-Hip-Hop-Soul release, Rain

Nyasia Chane'l

“Rain” by Nyasia Chane’l transcends your archetypal RnB track to narrate a profound lesson in seduction and soul. The trappy backbeat and tinges of 80s nostalgia create a beguiling blend of modern rhythmics and caressive old-school style as Chane’l’s honeyed vocal lines glide over the equally as smooth instrumental layers with a grace which is as powerful as it is tender to embody the track’s theme of deep, yearning lust.

Drawing inspiration from the likes of SWV, Ashanti, and New Edition, Nyasia has created a song that stands tall among classic elemental love songs. Co-written with the talents of Dajour Neufville and Jayson “J-Didda” Butler, “Rain” captures the essence of longing and connection in a way that feels both timeless and irresistibly new. It is guaranteed to strike a chord with anyone with a pulse and libido.

Nyasia Chane’l, with her multifaceted talents in singing, songwriting, and acting, emerges as an essential artist in today’s musical landscape. Her Neo-Hip-Hop Soul signature is one that any RnB fans will want perpetually etched in their memory.

Listen to Rain on Tidal and Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Specyal T pioneered nostalgia for her boundary-breaking boom-bap RnB pop track, Double Take

Canada’s hottest RnB artist, Specyal T, brought enough heat in her LP, Foresight, to start an inferno. The standout single, Double Take, runs through with funk-laced retro synths to carve the grooves and boom-bap beats to deliver rhythms that will intoxicate your rhythmic pulses.

With the fiery old school rap bars in the verses and lashings of luxe soul in the harmonised vocal lines, Specyal T ensured their seminal hit was dripping in dynamism to accentuate the pioneered and manicured nostalgia.

The Caribbean-Canadian artist splits her talents between her vocations as a pro musician, actor and executive; her multi-award-winning tracks have featured on several popular TV channels, and her hits have been heard on commercial radio stations across Europe and North America. After working its way into her boundary-pushing LP, Double Take will also feature in the soundtrack to the 2023 film Alarmed. 

Stream the Album Version of Double Take for yourselves by heading over to Soundcloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast