R&B and soul are two of those classic sounds that haven’t wavered over the years, instead they’ve continued to evolve and branch out into exciting new frontiers. So without further ado, let’s have a listen.
First up in this week’s Sounds of R&B & Soul playlist is Devantier Rain’s new single ‘MONSTER,” featuring Tamaraebi, is a reflective, stripped-back blend of rap, R&B, and psychedelic soul. From Devantier’s upcoming album MELATONIN, this track explores emotional distance with intimate, diary-like lyrics. Produced in Berlin, the song gained a new layer of intimacy with Tamaraebi’s verse in London. Both artists describe the song’s atmosphere as laid-back and dreamlike, focusing on personal chaos and surrender. Devantier’s soulful melodies and innovative production, combined with Tamaraebi’s otherworldly vocals, create a compelling and intimate listening experience.
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Molly Bogin’s ‘Dancing in the Rain’ lives up to its name with a vibey and spellbinding neo-soul atmosphere. Paying clear homage to the smooth sounds of Tom Misch and Moonchild, the track is elevated by Molly’s undeniably powerful vocals. The blend of retro soul sensibilities with contemporary R&B creates a captivating and mature sound. It’s a track that feels both familiar and fresh, hinting at a promising artistry that effortlessly combines vulnerability with vocal command. You’ll want to put this on repeat for those introspective, rainy day moments.
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Blending falsetto croons, Rhodes keys by Jake Sherman, and a soaring synth solo, Kerry Charles’ ‘Slow Bleeding’ channels soft rock nostalgia with a knowing wink. This is a lush, sardonic slow jam that aches with charm and vintage sheen. It’s a love song for the disillusioned – sweet but never saccharine, groovy yet grounded in existential malaise. Kerry deftly blurs the line between earnest and ironic, conjuring the spirit of Prince and Steely Dan without imitation. ‘Slow Bleeding’ is an aesthetic that’s rich with mood, melancholy, and the sense that growing old might not be so bad after all.
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Blending bedroom-soul and downtempo electronica, Leyton Thomas’ ‘Soil 2.0’ is a smooth track that highlights the artist’s introspective lyricism, shaped by his experiences in both North and South England. Influenced by a diverse palette of genres, from heavy metal and grime to hip-hop and jazz, Leyton crafts a sound that’s both intimate and expansive. ‘Soil 2.0’ showcases his ability to weave together melodic and rhythmic elements, creating a compelling and soulful listening experience. It hints at the rich sonic landscape of his upcoming reworked EP.
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TENNIN’s latest single ‘Morphée’ is a haunting and empowering exploration of inner battles and emotional resilience. Built on epic, cinematic production by Boucle d’Or, the track pairs atmospheric melodies with the artist’s soulful, expressive vocals to evoke a dreamlike confrontation with past pain. Inspired by personal struggles that once felt like nightmares, ‘Morphée’ becomes a sonic journey toward peace and strength. Blending indie R&B with subtle trip-hop influences, TENNIN transforms vulnerability into power, inviting listeners to reflect on their own stories. It’s a bold and intimate release that cements her as a rising voice in the French alt-R&B scene with global resonance.
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Dutch singer-songwriter Koosje delivers a compelling slice of neo-soul titled ‘Don’t You See The Irony?’. Her rich vocals effortlessly navigate the lush jazz harmonies, showcasing impressive freedom and control. Hints of folk subtly weave through the R&B riffs, creating a unique sonic tapestry. The track highlights Koosje’s strengths as both a vocalist and arranger, leaving a lasting impression with its sophisticated yet accessible sound. It’s a verifying continuation of this artist’s promising career.
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‘I Love You Mama (Even More)’ is a stunning orchestral reimagining of Neena Rose’s earlier tribute to maternal love, infused with greater emotional depth and cinematic grace. Swapping out pop textures for sweeping strings and delicate piano, the new version elevates the sentiment, delivering a deeply touching homage to the irreplaceable role of a mother. Neena’s heartfelt vocals shine with sincerity, making it a perfect Mother’s Day anthem. With her rising star power and artistic evolution on full display, this moving rendition proves that Neena Rose not only knows how to write a hit, but how to make it timeless.
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Initially sounding like an intimate portrayal of two people, Khamari’s ‘Head in a Jar’ unfolds with a subtle emotional complexity. The lyrics gradually reveal a poignant narrative of distant observation. The metaphor of being part of someone’s life yet feeling removed resonates deeply, amplified by the earnest songwriting and contemporary sonics. Khamari’s smooth vocals glide over a thoughtfully crafted soundscape, hinting at influences ranging from classic soul to modern R&B. This track showcases his ability to blend relatable themes with sophisticated musicality, leaving a lingering sense of longing and introspection.
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Weaving vulnerability with power in an alt-pop and contemporary R&B fusion, Cristiana Love’s ‘BELONG TO ME’ dives into the darker complexities of love. With sultry vocals and hypnotic beats, she channels the edge of Pop Rap and the smooth sensuality of soul. Drawing from her rich personal journey, Cristiana crafts a sonic atmosphere that’s as bold and vivid as her visual brand. Fans of Doja Cat or Camila Cabello will appreciate the polished pop allure, while her Cardi B-esque lyrical bite adds emotional grit. ‘BELONG TO ME’ is an intoxicating, confident exploration of love’s possessive side. It’s raw, stylish, and magnetic.
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‘Unreal’ is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of post-breakup healing, blending emotional depth with polished production. Written and vocal-produced by Jemerine Chan herself, the track captures the raw vulnerability of heartbreak while guiding listeners toward self-reclamation and strength. With layered vocals and atmospheric beats reminiscent of Billie Eilish and Ariana Grande, ‘Unreal’ dives deeper into sadness, frustration, and empowered release. As a Malaysian artist thriving in London’s music scene, Jemerine continues to fuse cross-cultural sounds with emotional storytelling, delivering a track that’s both soul-baring and fiercely liberating.
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PURPLE MELON 