For his latest release “Leon”, Leon Bridges dives into the soul of classic R&B while carving out space for a sound that’s unmistakably his own. With soulful melodies and a timeless rhythm, “Leon” introduces itself as a testimony to the R&B genre.
Leon Bridges garnered fame in 2015 with his debut studio album titled “Coming Home”, which peaked at number six on the Billboard 200. Bridges is best known for his vintage americana style rhythms, such as his 2015 tracks “Coming Home” and “River”, which both include soulful reverb, female backing vocals, and doo wop style rhythms.
Bridges’ music recalls soul legends such as Aretha Franklin, Sam Cooke and Otis Redding, musical legends whose music nearly demands a close listen, creating a hypnotic blend of both lyrics and musical rhythm.
Within Bridges newest release “Leon”, Bridges modernizes his retro flare with 43 minutes of new-age R&B and love ballads.
The first track of the album titled “When a Man Cries” is a raw depiction of male heartbreak, highlighting what it feels like to be wronged by someone you loved.
The second verse of the song starts with, “Say you wanna start a fire to see how it feels / To see who we are when they burn / Well, take a good look, don’t try me / There’s a limit to my sympathy”. The opening track of this album is a solid predecessor for the following tracks, with a subtle southern soul modernized vocals.
Bridges strays from his iconic doo wop style and instead takes part in modern soul similar to WILLOW and Childish Gambino.
The third track on the album titled “Laredo” certainly showcases Bridges’ southern roots with an acoustic guitar backing, pizzicato riffing, and steady drum beat. The song confirms Bridges as a powerhouse when it comes to love songs.
Bridges can depict both love, heartbreak, and sensual feelings in a rather cathartic style, almost forcing readers to listen closely as to what his lyrics mean, “Love, I’m just a beginner / What if I stayed in Laredo? / For just one more night.”
Within the eighth track of the album, Bridges bares his vintage soul briefly in “… Never Satisfied”. The track opens with a joyful reverb organ and subtle drumming as the lyrics start with “I can’t get you off my mind / Let it last all the time / Hope our bodies meet again / Hope I get your love again.”
The meshing of subtle church rhythm alongside sensual and intimate lyrics confirms Bridges’ place within the R&B genre.
Bridges also includes a brief, guitar ballad titled “Teddy’s Tune”. The addition of this track on the album introduces the idea of an album best listened to from beginning to end, an archaic way of listening to albums but a true testament to Bridges vintage roots.
The last song on the album titled “God Loves Everyone” can be seen as a response to the political unrest that has occurred since Bridges musical absence.
“God sees all the folks on their own / God knows what it’s like to bе cold / And the winners and losers and playеr and fool / For the game.”
Bridges blends old-school influences with modern flair, giving listeners a fresh take on what it means to make soul music in 2024. From the first note, “Leon” invites listeners to stay awhile and listen closely.
