Alena Nicole

We’ve all been there—young, dumb, and in love. Falling for someone who may not be the best for us, not knowing when or how to let go.

R&B/Soul artist, Lucky Daye’s sophomore album, “Candydrip,” explores the unequivocal themes of holding onto a toxic and draining love, actions of codependency and obsession, and the yearning for a lover’s time and affection.

With poetic verses on “Intro” and “Candy Drip (Interlude)” to boasting trumpets and stick percussion on “God Body,” the 36-year-old star effortlessly displays his unique talents and tells his complicated story from one song to the next.

The soulful, 17-song project features the likes of fellow popular R&B/Soul artist, Smino, well-known rapper, Lil Durk, and the soul band, Chiiild.

Daye’s debut album, “Painted,” skyrocketed the artist’s career, placing him into the categories of hot, upcoming R&B artists like Brent Faiyaz, Giveon, and Masego. With his newest project release, he solidifies his place in the music industry and showcases the bulk of his talents.

Throughout the album, Daye takes us through the weaves and valleys that is his relationship. On the official album song, “Candy Drip,” he sings with layered harmonization’s; “We tried to end it twice,” over moody, drawn-out synth bases and water-like sound additives.

Song 10, “Over,” which includes a sample from veteran R&B artist, Music SoulChild, was originally released as a single. The recording presents its audience with reverbed sounds and a deep base, as Daye pleadingly sings to his lover:

“I thought it was over. Got me thinking the feelings over. Got me doing it over and over, you keep calling me back. I’m just tryna get closure, but you pulling me closer and closer. Phone ringing like, over and over. Cause you keep calling me back.”

“F****n’ Sound”, track 11, exhibits Daye’s vocal range over a simple guitar and light percussion with snapping. The song lures you in with a church-like choir in the background as he begs his lover to “make that f***n’ sound.”

He continues grieving his love on “Used to Be.” Daye melodically comes into the song after a generous flute intro and chants, “I used to be yours. Wish I would’ve known that love would let us go, ‘cause I used to be yours,” before being beautifully interrupted by a high-pitched violin solo just before the ending of the song.

As the artist continues to mourn the loss of his lover, in “Fever,” Daye hits a high note singing:

“I got fever and don’t know how to leave her. I think I need her. Don’t think I could leave her.” He almost wails as he pleads, “Come back to me.”

The album didn’t only feature slow renditions. It’s clear Daye wanted to prove he could conquer all sides of R&B and Soul.

So alternatively, Daye picks up the pace in “NWA,” using a beat that seemingly samples a recording from a video game; and with “Feels Like,” an upbeat song with essences of the mid-1980s and “Prince-like” moments.

“Feels Like” isn’t the only track that throws you back in time with older beat remixes and samples.

The second entr’acte in the album, “Touch Somebody (Interlude),” takes you back to the 1990s with a neo-soul feel that reminds you of prominent 1990s performer, D’Angelo.

It’s clear that Daye meant for the album, ‘Candydrip,’ to solidify his place in the R&B/Soul industry. As he proved this, he also gave a thoughtful project back to his supporters and the R&B community alike.

It especially shows with the last song on the album, “Ego,” which immediately blesses our ears with an angelic woman’s harmonization’s in the opening. Throughout, you hear a sort of bell percussion, such as a cowbell or triangle. It’s a subtle but striking detail that highlights his experimental nature and sharp ear for sound.

Lucky Daye’s, “Candydrip,” takes listeners through his complex, and at times, problematic relationship with his unbeknownst lover and presents it to listeners as an intriguing, soulful, and highly harmonious project.

INFO BOX:

Title: Candydrip by Lucky Daye

Featured artists: Smino, Lil Durk, Chiiild

Release date: March 10, 2022

Label: Keep Cool/RCA Records

My Favorite Songs: “Over,” “F***n’ Sound,” “Fever”

Industry Rating: 4/5

My Personal Rating: 4/5

Available for streaming on all music platforms. Listen to the full album here.