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: jazz, hip hop Like some people, I came to this artist amidst investigating what "Yandhi" was. I thought it was someone featured on Kanye's latest album, but apparently it's an incredibly promising, young, and new artist as well. I'm not entirely where the artist has contributed because they could be samples for all I know. I think the mixing could be improved a bit, as some of it can feel a bit flat and muted. The vocals could be brought out more and the drums more crisp. The sounds feel a bit too compressed, and considering how floral the singer's voice is, a concomitant backing track is needed. The jazz background is fantastic; I definitely need to explore more of this type of genre. Of course, people have done it before a la Tyler and Kendrick. I'm excited to see someone else on the playing field as well. Rating: 7/10

GENRE: pop Coming in I had few expectations. Post-listening, I will say that I'm quite surprised. What usually deters me from listening to top-of-the-charts hits is their mundane and homogeneous production.  I may not have been caught up with the current industry, but I can definitely jam with that bumping bass line. Going staccato and funky was the right choice to go, and feels like Daft Punk in that regard. I also appreciate the diversity of sounds thrown in throughout the song. I'll have to do more research, because this could be Dua Lipa  coming into her own style. I hope she continues to grow from this. The only downside I would attach to this is the monotony of her voice. Her timbre and her cadence is just too similar to some generic song you'd find in a club. Rating: 6/10