Bryson Tiller’s new album, Bryson Tiller, marks his first full-length release in four years. Despite this hiatus, the R&B, rap, pop, and soul artist has remained a significant presence in the music scene. Tiller’s unique blend of vulnerability, talent, and social media savvy has kept him at the forefront of R&B, even during his time away from major projects.
The album opens with a dynamic force, showcasing Tiller’s ambition to push R&B in new directions. His powerful voice drives the record, though there are moments when some tracks feel like filler. Nevertheless, his return reflects a strong desire to reassert his place in the music world.
The album features just two guest artists: Victoria Monét and Clara La San. Tiller’s decision to keep features minimal aligns with his desire to focus on his own artistry. In a March interview with Complex, he explained his impatience with features and preference for doing things himself to maintain control and keep the album centered on his personal vision.
Throughout the album, Tiller demonstrates his rap skills and solidifies his identity as an artist. He balances traditional R&B elements with innovative approaches, keeping the listener engaged. On tracks like “Attention,” he uses futuristic synths and layered vocals to add depth to his performance, showcasing his vocal range. Though the lyrics might not dive deep, his delivery infuses these tracks with significance.
On “Stay Gold,” Tiller delivers a compelling rap verse that blends desperation with charm, adding a layer of authenticity to his storytelling. His willingness to lay it all on the line is commendable, even if the emotional stakes are somewhat low.
However, Tiller’s foray into safer choices on singles like “CALYPSO” and “Outside” doesn’t always pay off. “CALYPSO” aims for excitement but falls into generic soul-pop territory. “Outside,” despite sampling Ying Yang Twins’ “Wait (The Whisper Song),” doesn’t fully leverage the interpolation, resulting in a weaker track.
The album’s strength lies in Tiller’s songwriting and ability to create relatable romantic scenarios. On “Undertow,” he explores his partner’s dreams with heartfelt curiosity, and though the acoustic guitar might seem overly sentimental, the song’s specific emotional focus makes it compelling.
Overall, Bryson Tiller isn’t about reinventing the wheel but about reaffirming his position through creative songwriting and emotional depth. Tiller’s ability to make every romantic moment feel personal and significant remains the core of his appeal.