Dawn Richard
“Tug of War”
Goldenheart (self-released, out now)
Dawn Richard is an utterly fascinating creature. Miscast early in her career as the squeaky clean mouthpiece of Diddy’s radio R&B group, Dannity Kane, the New Orleans native has flourished since the group folded in 2009. Richard’s triumphant post-DK debut LP is a swirling, mystical rumination on the end of a relationship that highlights Richard’s diverse palette of influences (R&B, electro-pop, hip-hop, Eastern music), impeccable taste, and unique voice. Though it is probably six songs too long, it is full of golden moments, namely this emotive, slow-burner that somehow both recalls The-Dream and Stevie Nicks. Richard chronicles the way that break-ups turn into power struggles, and as she’s shown throughout her career, she’s in no mood to back down. The diverse, challenging nature of Goldenheart may turn off a high percentage of R&B and pop fans, but those who are willing to persevere with it will be rewarded handsomely One of the albums of the young year.
Listen to Goldenheart on Spotify.
