By Talan Quinteros
This year on Feb. 13, artist Brent Faiyaz released his 5th studio album, “Icon.” Faiyaz is a solo project featuring ten tracks with zero features, put together with different decades of music ranging from the ‘80s and ‘90s up to the current world of R&B.
- white noise
The opening track on this album sets the stage for a different kind of Faiyaz project. It sets a grand tone, blending violins and strings, giving it a dramatic, movie-trailer-like feel. The suspense builds further as Faiyaz doesn’t sing a single word, signaling that this is a more emotionally evolved and refined project than his past work. While it is a great introduction to the album, it lacks replay value. 6.1/10.
- wrong faces.
This future classic Faiyaz song hits hard right from the opening beat drop. The track explores finding love in unexpected places and choosing the right person after wasting energy on the wrong ones. Faiyaz’s vocals tie the piece together, making it very strong overall. It is sure to become a staple in his discography. 8.1/10.
- have to.
This lead single from the album is arguably one of Icon’s top tracks. Faiyaz tweaks his vocals, singing about wanting his partner so badly that he would do anything to close the distance between them. The distorted vocals, while unconventional, are executed very well, making the track flow seamlessly. It has high replay value and is a personal favorite. 8.3/10.
- butterflies.
Faiyaz delivers one of his best tracks on the album with “butterflies.” He explores the anxiety of being in love while wondering if those feelings are reciprocated. His undistorted voice floats over the instrumental, conveying a deep sense of vulnerability as he calls his partner his “Superwoman” and a “dying breed.” The second half of the track transitions to a slower beat that gradually builds. It is a standout emotional highlight. 8.6/10
- the other side.
The fifth track takes a different approach than any other song on the album, and it is an absolute hit. It stands out heavily, featuring an upbeat ’80s sound reminiscent of Michael Jackson. The Jackson-inspired ad-libs and vintage production make it pop. Centered on the theme of reassurance, this track will likely become an all-time classic as Faiyaz perfectly captures the art of R&B. 9.7/10.
- strangers.
For the sixth track, Faiyaz opts for a slow, laid-back beat with gentle guitar strings. Drawing inspiration from Frank Ocean, he sings about a lost lover and what the relationship was “supposed to be.” The song is emotionally heavy, and the inclusion of an automated voice at the end adds an interesting, diverse twist. Faiyaz’s strong vocals hold the track together throughout. 7.7/10.
- world is yours.
Faiyaz continues his Jackson-inspired sound here with high-pitched vocals and twinkling guitar. He sings of total devotion and trust, offering everything he has to the girl he loves. The song features a grand transition blended with a distorted chorus that may take some listeners time to get used to. However, the second half returns to undistorted vocals, reinforcing the message that the world is truly hers. 8.1/10.
- four seasons.
This track takes a turn into the ‘90s. Faiyaz nails this older style of production again, drawing inspiration from artist Timbaland. Faiyaz talks about his personal flaws and reflects on how poorly he treated his partner. He sings about how he is going to be different and treat them much better going forward. He uses the “weather,” being feelings and actions, saying how they matter to him in the end, and he wants to do whatever he can to make it work. The song has a very deep meaning, and he puts it all together with a ‘90s-inspired beat. 7.5/10.
- pure fantasy.
The 9th track on “Icon” has a stunning beat; it combines snaps and crowd roars, giving it a magical feel. Faiyaz completely enters his “fantasy” of love, and his soothing voice carries the track effortlessly. Faiyaz made another great love song, exploring the feelings of escape and genuine time with another. This track is another strong point on the album and should be on your next playlist. 8.1/10.
- vanilla sky.
Faiyaz’s tenth and final track is a reflection on the feelings of happiness and its true meaning. Faiyaz touches on love, success, solitude, and destiny over mellow guitar strums and a slow beat. He seeks a “safe place” to be honest about his journey and his emotions. This moving, genuine song serves as a perfect ending to his fifth studio album. 8.6/10.
While Faiyaz’s fifth studio album is on the shorter side, running just thirty-three minutes across ten tracks, it is an immensely high-quality project. Each song stands on its own, bringing unique value to the record without the need for features. As a long-time fan, it’s rewarding to see Faiyaz return with such a refined sound after over two years of drought without a new album. “Icon” is a must-listen for anyone seeking a blend of nostalgic and modern R&B; you’re almost guaranteed to find a track that will sit with you for a long time.
