Amy Perez
Copy Editor
No distractions. That is how Leon Bridges latest album, “Happiness Anytime,” was meant to be listened to.
Leon Bridges has one of the smoothest and most soulful voices that today’s music can find. Bridges debuted in the music industry back in 2015 with his 1950-1960’s style album “Coming Home” with the his hit song “Beyond” which has become a staple wedding song since its release.
Bridges is back at it again with his latest groovy album, “Happiness Anytime.”
The album was released in parts as he dropped four songs at a time. The first set were released on July 17, then four again on Aug. 21 with the final four available on Sept. 25. This breakdown allowed its listeners to meditate on each section of songs at a time instead of feeling overstimulated by a long album all at once.
Track one, “Light the Way,” sounds off with the uplifting trumpet opening that sounds like an ode to summertime. This song sets the tone for the album with a fast-pace afrobeat bop before transitioning into an acoustic style calmer earthy track “Tears Of Joy” that reminds us not to worry as it provides a hint Latin flare.
“Happiness Anytime” is filled with a Bossa Nova vibe that has smooth transitions throughout. Overall, this album flows until the end with no need of skipping.
Bridges closes the album with “Please Don’t Say Goodbye,” ending the album on a much slower tone. It’s as if he is speaking to the end of summer as we shift into fall and it begs his listeners to restart at track one.
There is a joyful groove to this piece of work with moments of upbeat magic throughout that keeps you swaying. His album is a soft, whispering reminder that happiness is available anywhere, anytime and all of the time, in all moments of life.
“Happiness Anytime” is fun and cheerful with a little bit of disco flare. Although a danceable album, Bridges definitely hits his emotional marks on the slower tracks causing our ears to crave the continuance of grittiness and rasp in his soulful voice.
Texas raised but Georgia born, this singer and songwriter keeps true to his neo-soul and R&B style as his heart flows into his work. Bridges is always a good listen and is constantly reinventing himself through his art. The success of “Happiness Anytime” gives credit to two very talented producers Lydia Kitto of Jungle and J Lloyd, both of Britain.
Bridges speaks of love and life in the simplest of ways, with a lightness that shines from song to song. If someone is feeling like things are a bit too heavy right now, this is the album to listen to. Whether you are on a long drive in the car, at home getting ready for the week or maybe you just need an hour to slow down and reset, then this is the album just for that.
Bridges captivates the listeners ears and mind with this sultry piece of genius.