Nick Hakim’s ‘I Can See’ Is a Hazy Alt-R&B Masterpiece: Album Review
“Stoner R&B” is not an insult: It’s the opposite, a loose term to describe a sprawling genre of music that includes everything from Dijon and Frank Ocean to Brent Faiyaz and Jhene Aiko. It’s R&B that has smoked a strong blunt, with languid grooves, heavy bass, psychedelicized pro
The release of Nick Hakim's 'I Can See' is a significant event in the music world, particularly for fans of alternative R&B. This genre, often referred to as "stoner R&B", has been gaining momentum in recent years, with artists like Dijon, Frank Ocean, and Jhene Aiko pushing its boundaries. Hakim's album is a masterpiece of this genre, with its hazy, languid soundscapes and introspective lyrics, making it a must-listen for anyone who appreciates experimental and atmospheric R&B.
The term "stoner R&B" is not a pejorative, but rather a descriptor of the genre's laid-back, psychedelic sound, which often features heavy basslines, dreamy melodies, and introspective lyrics. Artists like Brent Faiyaz and Jhene Aiko have been instrumental in shaping this sound, and Hakim's 'I Can See' is a worthy addition to this canon. The album's success is a testament to the growing popularity of alternative R&B, which is increasingly gaining recognition as a major force in the music industry.
As the music landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how "stoner R&B" and other experimental genres continue to shape the sound of popular music. With artists like Hakim, Dijon, and Frank Ocean pushing the boundaries of what R&B can be, fans can expect a steady stream of innovative and exciting new music in the coming years. Next, we can expect to see how Hakim's 'I Can See' is received by critics and fans, and whether it will have a lasting impact on the music industry, potentially paving the way for even more experimental and avant-garde R&B releases.
Originally reported by variety.com. MusicNewsletter adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.