In modern times, music feels like it comes and goes along with the artists who drop the music. A lot of songs are starting to feel like they just go viral for a week on social media platforms like TikTok or Instagram and then disappear. That’s why I view Sonder Son by Brent Faiyaz to be a kind of album that feels different compared to most.
Although Brent Faiyaz dropped the album back in 2017, the relevance is still there because of the emotions expressed through the lyrics and the mellow tone. I don’t see it as an album that’s trying to be trendy on social media, it’s more so an album that sounds and feels very genuine. Unlike some recent songs, it seems like way more thoughts and feelings are put into Sonder Son. When looking at Brent Faiyaz’s interview with the well known Billboard Magazine, Faiyaz mentioned that music is an outlet for feelings he can’t just say out loud.
You can feel that instantly on the opening track named “Home.” The song is simple and mellow, but that’s what makes it feel genuine. Faiyaz sounds like he’s talking directly to the listener, and not trying to convince listeners of a made up story.
That same feeling continues on to track two called “Gang Over Luv,” where Brent reflects on his childhood and some feelings; you can notice it in the line where he says, “All the homies, we came up the same way, And I swear ain’t nothing change.”
Jumping far down to track eight called “Talk 2 U,” the melody becomes a little softer compared to some other tracks and the softness in this song makes you want to replay it whenever you’re in your head or just need a quick melodic listen. After hearing some somewhat reasonable takes from people that were criticizing Sonder Son, I realize that people think that it’s too slow or too simple, but I honestly think that simplicity is the whole point. R&B is known for the typical BPM of around 60-80, so if you’re knowledgeable on the specifics, then Sonder Son is for you.
To me the soulful melody is the best on this album because it’s basically giving you time to reflect. Sonder Son feels more grounded and direct to its genre and stands out on relatability. The feelings he talks about like loneliness, love, confusion, and growing up without pretending makes it seem like young adults aren’t alone.
Even though Sonder Son isn’t super old, I can still feel the difference between it and newer R&B. Music artists these days now focus on being catchy with rhyming hooks that are made to last for a short period of time. Therefore I believe that Sonder Son is the perfect album because it shows that music doesn’t have to be loud or fast to stay relevant. Sometimes the albums that last are the ones where the artist stays true to themselves and the genre, so try giving Sonder Son a listen!
Faye • Feb 19, 2026 at 7:58 pm
I agree an album or a song that is timeless is so much better than one that is only popular or trending for a short period of time. For a timeless album will last forever and never get old. While a song that may be created only for the reason of wanting to be a “trendy” song may get overplayed quickly and forgotten about after the trend starts to die down. Albums like these carry real raw emotions and feelings, like you have said. Newer songs today usually fail to capture that they rush right over the part of making their music more impactful for the listener and also for their songs to carry out a deeper meaning.
Nandi Abange • Feb 19, 2026 at 11:02 am
I believe newer artists and albums are looking for the next trend they can be on top of. Unfortunately, even older artists start to blur the lines between catchy and fun and an actual classic that people can look back on and still love. “people don’t make albums anymore” as Beyonce would say, Is a perfect statement- they make timepieces. This generation just wants to encapsulate the perfect moment, the perfect trend, but with that, soul is lost- passion is lost. With this new album a timelessness can be felt, and that is what the people truly want. These trendy momentary things can feel good but in reality everyone wants their own “niche” . To be their own being, and this album can give that to people.
Cora Giuliano • Feb 3, 2026 at 10:34 pm
I definitely agree that music that has something to say is the most impactful music. With the huge impact of short form content on media as a whole, there’s been a shift in how art, journalism, and music are being made, as you said. Since most of the media consumed now is made to be short and snappy, we often lose the touch of real, genuine emotion being conveyed through art and music. Finding albums that are heartfelt and profound is so important. Music serves as a way to connect to yourself and your others. Being able to put on music that really resonates with you is such a great feeling. I think the way you’ve explained that is really well done.