Tea Time

GENRE: R&B, funk I'm still on the Teyana Taylor train; her ability to write in different styles is alluring. Or, is it her writers and producers that deserve more of the credit? Unlike her album, this single stands out to me, at least from what I've listened to so far. This legitimately sounds like it came straight from the early 2000's. From the rhythm and cadence to the overall song structure, it's hard to believe it was released in 2019. I wouldn't say this is a blunder on part of the writers. I guess it's up to your personal opinion, but I welcome the decision. I mean, just look at the aesthetic of the art. It's a fun song overall, with great production and pinpoint mixing that emulates the sounds of the decade. Rating: 6/10

GENRE: R&B This probably one of the "coolest" songs that I've listened to this year. And by "coolest", I mean that it sits close to top in terms of overall views. From that perspective I almost feel like I'm out of place, because I tend to avoid songs like these. Fortunately, Kehlani 's smash hit takes the best elements out of these types of songs. I'm particularly fond of the melody, the cadence of the lyrics, and the synths in the background supporting the whole song. The drum beats are clear and crisp as well. I have no complaints there. The overall production is loaded with rich sounds and details. I was surprised at how much I could pick up from repeated listens. More songs need that kind of detail nowadays. I couldn't care less about Ty Dolla $ign; he adds literally nothing to the song for me. Rating: 7/10

GENRE: R&B, lo-fi I can't remember where exactly she popped up on my radar, but I'm glad she did. This song feels like a modern take on the hottest hits of the 2000's. I say that because of the rapid singing style, wrought with flairs everywhere. What's different is the subtle, hazy backing track. The instrumentation is perfect too. Clean guitars and acoustic drums take to another level that most modern pop artists don't really escape to. Leaning on a more indie and lo-fi style was the right way to go. I'm loving the choice of making it a bit fuzzier, which really emphasizes the emotions of longing and nostalgia. The use of samples is intentional and not overbearing. The lyrics are simple, concise, and pack a tight message. Overall, just consistently good writing. Rating: 7.5/10

GENRE: R&B Stevie Wonder's  illustrious career never ceases to amaze me. His works are not only easily placed among the most catchy songs out there, but they are top-notch in their approach to musicianship. I've always adored and envied (honestly) how he incorporates jazzy influences into his songs, especially in this one. That small refrain with "Someone who needs me" is exactly what I'm talking about. You get the classic harmonica solo here too. That just can't be separated from his style. The way he writes his melodies are incredibly endearing as well. I can listen to this song on end, and that's what I'm going to do. Rating 8.5/10

GENRE: chill, R&B I've heard this name float around a lot, and today I decided to actually dig in. I just first want to say that the piece itself is quite simple, but that is part of its strength as a song. The singer legitimately has parts few and far between. The melody transfers between instruments, which I find gives a lot of depth to an otherwise mellow song. Even then, I think the harmonic content in some of the solos (especially the guitar) is catchy. Although, the cadence in the lyrics seem a little off sometimes, like an extra word needed to fit in there.  But, there's nothing to scoff at when it comes to the actual production. It's incredibly clean, and there's interesting bits and pieces here and there that I think is needed more in today's mainstream pop.  Rating: 7/10 

GENRE: R&B A dominant force in the entertainment industry, Mary J. Blige has remained a driving force on music, movies, TV shows, etc. You get the point. She's kind of a big deal, has been for awhile now. Whether you enjoy any of her brand, that's up to you. I figured that it's only proper to give a listen to what she's most famous for.  She's so representative of the 90's style of hip hop and R&B. All the novel instruments are there: the bass, the synthetic pianos and strings, you get the picture. The groove itself is pretty solid too. What I'm noticing is a hint of artistic choice as well, seeing more experimental structures and chord progressions. The lyrics could use with a little more sophistication, but her vocal prowess shines through nonetheless. Overall, a solid jam. Rating: 7/10 

genre: R&B, pop, rap drink: klondike bar lol again Hot off the press of the Christmas season, I guess I wasn't really prepared for what this song was bringing to the table.  The first thing that caught my ears was the darker and more sinister tone of both the backing synth (vibraphone?). Same idea applies to the chorus. Owing to the modified scale (which I don't think is generally used in pop) gives it a refreshing feel.  Forgive me for my lack of music theory, but it seems to some variation on a Dorian scale, specifically D Dorian #4. I don't know whether this scale is named something specific, but it gives off an interesting vibe. The reason why I specify the #4 is because of how prominent it is in the song, but I digress. In short, the unconventional tone (certainly in pop) gives a fun scale to improv to, and I appreciate her ability to make it creatively appealing and close enough to her own style to prevent alienating her typical fanbase.  You get the impr...