Friday, Oct. 27 marked the release of Brent Faiyaz’s “Larger Than Life,” his junior album.
Christopher Brent Wood, known as Brent Faiyaz, is an American R&B singer born in Columbia, Md. His atmospheric slow jams and unique vocals name him as one of the most prominent figures in the R&B game right now.
Faiyaz was previously in the band Sonder along with Dpat and Atu, other notable R&B vocalists. Given his previous success throughout his career, it is no wonder that “Larger Than Life” does not disappoint.
Immediately into track one, titled “Tim’s Intro”, we see a mood setter both in lyrics and melody. The mix of violin and the 2000s beat utilized in “Tim’s Intro” set a sultry tone that remains for the rest of the tracks.
My personal top three favorites off the album are “Upset(feat. Tommy Richman & FELIX!)”, “Moment Of Your Life(feat. Coco Jones)” and “Tim’s Intro.” “Upset” is my top choice because it so perfectly embodies the type of music he produces. The beat is fun, his vocals are great and the production and mixing job is phenomenal.
“Whenever I listen to [the album], or any Brent song in general, I feel a boost of confidence, and I’m in a better mood,” said Gigi Schubkegel, senior.
Faiyaz’s “Larger Than Life” acts as an album you can throw on while cleaning, working, or commuting.
“My favorite song is definitely ‘Outside All Night’ or ‘Pistachios,’” said Alexandra Soto, senior. “I like those two the best because they’re the type of songs you listen to while you’re out on a drive.”
As well, Faiyaz utilizes simple yet effective lyrics throughout the album. None are calculated or have deeper meanings, they’re just simple and calm.
“I like that the lyrics and words flow smoothly through the songs,” said Sasha Wolff, junior. “Especially in “WY@” instead of sounding choppy and harsh his lyrics match the beats of the song perfectly as he recites them.”
Overall, my final rating is an 8/10. The album has a cohesive and consistent sound throughout. The lyrics are simple with interesting production, which is what I expect from Faiyaz. It wasn’t revolutionary or completely one of a kind, but it is what it needed to be, a feel good album with angelic vocals and catchy lyrics.
“Larger Than Life” is available to stream on Spotify and Apple Music.
