Brent Faiyaz Uncorks an Instant-Vintage Serving of Sultry R&B With ‘Icon’: Album Review

Genres like R&B and reggae prioritize emotional resonance over technical prowess, a quality that often trips up newcomers attempting to replicate their essence. This context makes the work of an artist like Brent Faiyaz—widely regarded as a contemporary torchbearer for R&B—stand out so starkly against the competition. His innate talent as a vocalist and songwriter is so profound that even the most casual expression feels imbued with soul.

His latest album, "Icon," serves as a masterclass in this artistry. While fully modern in its execution, the record consciously builds upon a rich lineage. One can detect the innovative spirit of pioneers like Prince, Lauryn Hill, and Frank Ocean—the latter's influence evident in Faiyaz's frequent use of pitch-shifted vocals. These are blended with the polished, mainstream appeal of acts like Luther Vandross and Usher. The production, helmed by executive producer Rafael Saadiq, is key to this cohesive sound. Saadiq, a veteran musician known for his work with D'Angelo, Erykah Badu, and Solange, brings a refined touch that elevates the album's consistent soulfulness.

Musically, "Icon" is built on electronic beats, but the most compelling instrument is undoubtedly Faiyaz's own voice. Through expert multi-tracking, his vocals create lush harmonic textures that traditionally would be supplied by guitars or keyboards. This technique, reminiscent of greats like Prince or Beyoncé, creates a uniquely layered sound that feels familiar yet innovative. His vocal dexterity is on full display, shifting effortlessly from a yearning falsetto on tracks like "World Is Yours" to a Michael Jackson-esque bite or playful Motown flair.

Remarkably, this versatility is packed into a concise 31-minute runtime, which includes a brief orchestral introduction. The album traverses sultry mid-tempo grooves, pop-inflected songs, ballads, and even a semi-acoustic track, offering a complete journey despite its brevity. Some critics, like music journalist Anya Sharma, have noted, "The album's length leaves you wanting more, but that density of ideas is part of its power. It refuses to overstay its welcome."

Faiyaz's profile remains somewhat under-the-radar despite over a decade of releases, a status partly attributable to his fiercely independent path. "Icon" is released through ISO Supremacy, the independent label and creative agency he co-founded in 2023, allowing him full artistic control. This independence may limit mainstream saturation but ensures an authentic, uncompromised vision. The result is a record so musically rich and multifaceted that it invites—and rewards—repeated listening without ever growing tiresome.