Smooth RnB production and boldly husky vocals make for a uniquely distinct sound, as Edric Barr kicks off his brand new 2025 album 100 Kisses.
Starting things up is the title-track, a dramatic rhythm but mellow enough for that old-school shoulder-swaying vibe, backed by keys and these quickly confronting, unmistakable and raspy vocals from Edric himself.
The song is fearlessly emotional in its relaying of a story of longing and heartbreak, of scornful realisation, drawing upon nostalgic RnB vibes melodically, but feeling like a freestyle loaded with evocative reflections lyrically. Always we resolve back to this central theme and hook, this idea of 100 Kisses never being enough to make up for the pain caused along the way.
Next we fall into even greater depths of heartbreak, as a lyrically unforgiving ANOTHER DAY reflects with instant honesty upon the sudden loss of a loved one. The voice is again the beating heart of the style, from modern rhythms to keys-led moments of ambiance, Edric’s voice holds things together in both lyrical openness and tone. I LOVE THAT FEELING then shines optimism into the space, piano and groove adding a nostalgic kind of trip-hop RnB crossover that soon lights up the room.
Twelve original tracks make up 100 Kisses in full, a wave-like progression of feelings from positivity to sheer scorn and regret, the likes of LTR confrontational but musically mellow, the voice occasionally piercing through with such a fine rasp and desperation that it feels like a private outcry of pain.
Highlights from the album include the acoustic guitar and world rhythms of a mellow and dreamy U GET WHAT U GIVE, and the upbeat yet still calmly contemplative pace and presence of LEAD LOVE – perhaps one of the most memorable songs for its simplicity and vibe. The strong and soulful guitar riff of ABOUT LOVE also sets the mood beautifully, and then on the flip-side, the Hip Hop darkness and haunting style of NIGHT RIDA draws focus to a whole other aspect of the Edric Barr creative approach.
Emotionally and vocally, the passion reaches a clear crescendo at the penultimate moment, for the energised and engaged ITS OUR THING – a track that leads well into the suddenly stripped-back intimacy and near a-Capella refrain of WHATEVER, thus concluding what proves a rollercoaster-like journey; through the highs and lows of love and a life lived with devotion and care.
Album out April 10th – Download it via Bandcamp. Find all things Edric Barr & follow on Instagram, Threads, YouTube, Pandora, Apple, TikTok & his Website.
I am impressed with the lyrics and the emotions that take you back to the old RnB style we all miss. This is a good album. Edric’s writing should be certainly recognized by the top Rnb greats.