My 21st Century Blues - Raye (2023)

Ideated from: going through some releases from the last few weeks I’ve been spinning a lot.

In between contributions to perform on and write a bunch of UK hits, Raye spent multiple years fighting with the label who had signed her but refused to release any material.

She finally got to do her own thing, and I think this record proves her point that they should have just let her do it.

This is a super-sharp record, a loose concept album about a breakup, I gather. Raye is an excellent singer who also has great rap flow, and she brings it all here.

Tracks I Liked

Oscar Winning Tears - a bitter, driving slow-burner

Hard Out Here - drops into an awesome whiplash beat

The Thrill Is Gone - a funky little jam.

Environmental Anxiety - crowded and nervous, but her voice rings through the din