Do That Again

the take

i had high expectations as it seems his career continues to reach new heights. performing on jimmy fallon, working with his musical idol, steve lacy, but this album fails to reach a true emotional peak on this album, we hear Malcom fluctuating between embracing his rockstar lifestyle and the grief over his last relationship. maybe because these 2 emotions counteract so intensely, it fails to truly soar on either. on both of my listens, i left not really *feeling it*. perhaps this is bias, but the tracks that deliver the most were the 2 pre-album singles — breathe and i saw your face — while i enjoyed both, i was left wanting something more. personally, i most enjoy his work when it feels like your listening to someone pouring their heart out . that deep, emotional core that he heightens with dreamy, guitar-filled instrumentation and unique samples from everyday life. i’ve enjoyed this album rollout and seeing more creative depth in the branding and music videos. but for me, it is a small drift away from what drew me in as a listener. regardless, as an early adopter, i will continue to listen to every creative endeavor there’s some standouts on here. but i think sweet boy is still my favorite album of his (sorry) fav tracks: difficult love / breathe / i saw your face / aint that the truth / gun to my head least fav tracks: free.99 / good bye / do that again