Remembering D’Angelo: Revolutionary Funk-Soul Luminary
D’Angelo’s presence loomed large over the neo-soul in the 1990s and 2000s, but his music stood out for its lightness, its subtlety, sparseness, and deftness of touch.
neo soul
Maiya Blaney Creates a Fascinating, Densely Woven Tapestry
Brooklyn’s Maiya Blaney explores her darkness with a fascinating blend of drum ‘n’ bass, folk-infused R&B vocals, and metal guitars.
Jordan Rakei Reflects on His Life So Far on ‘The Loop’
The Loop emerges as a worthwhile musical journey in which soul-pop’s Jordan Rakei reveals some universal truths he’s unearthed in his ongoing life story.
Jamila Woods Finds ‘Water Made Us’ While Seeking Love Inside Her
Jamila Woods’ Water Made Us is full of creativity. The songs are not just liquid, solid, and gas; they are blood, wine, and soul.
‘Sundial’ Is Noname’s Contribution to the Current Golden Era of Rap
On Sundial, Noname raps like her voice is holding the sky from falling. Love of oneself and one’s community is a struggle front and center on the album.
Jessie Ware’s ‘That! Feels Good!’ Is Horny and Accomplished
Jessie Ware has continued her disco success with That! Feels Good!, which is somehow even more potent than its predecessor.
GADADU Make Mesmerizing Noise on Jazzy, Neo-Psychedelic ‘The Weatherman Is Wrong’
GADADU’s music has always been a balm for the dreariness and anxiety inherent in everyday life. With The Weatherman Is Wrong, they continue to confound and fascinate.
‘Aaliyah’: The Legacy of the Perfect R&B/Pop Record
Aaliyah’s patented brand of Black pop, a mélange of hip-hop, electropop, and soul, set the standard by which other urban-pop singers were judged and set the stage for Beyonce and Rihanna.
Electric Midnight: An Interview with R&B Trailblazer Rahsaan Patterson
From piloting the transcendent rhythms of house music with Quentin Harris on Heroes & Gods 2.0 to conquering music industry politics, R&B trailblazer Rahsaan Patterson thrives in his own groove.
Questlove Drums Circles Around Music History
Circles are central to Questlove. He loves a circular connection and a sidelong glance. Circles overlap and connect in his artful book, Music Is History.
Neo Soul’s Ray Blk Blesses Audiences with ‘Access Denied’
Ray Blk has unveiled a gorgeous album of sultry tunes, dreamy vocals, and memorable beats and hooks. It’s a sensual record that belies its modern sheen.
Jungle Find ‘Loving in Stereo’ Means Getting Back to the Dance Floor
Jungle’s political stance on Living in Stereo is a call for love, and as the title of the LP suggests, this takes more than one to accomplish. Let’s dance!