SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: LEON BRIDGES – HAPPINESS ANYTIME

LEON BRIDGES
HAPPINESS ANYTIME
COLUMBIA RECORDS

Texas-based neo soul and R&B singer Leon Bridges teams up with J Lloyd-Watson and Lydia Kitto of British soul collective Jungle in his fifth studio album, Happiness Anytime, where happiness isn’t just a state of bliss and a state of mind, but rather a feeling that lingers for a long time and sparks joy and movement.

“Light The Way” grooves into the record feet first with its infectious Latin influences and Afrobeat influence of Fela Kuti, of percussive instrumentation and Bridges’ hypnotic vocals, designed to get you moving to the dance floor. “Tears Of Joy” opens to an acoustic medley of guitars and gospel influences that is grounded emotionally and gives off a natural high.

“All Day, All Night” is the standout track on the record as it gives off nightlife vibes featuring dancehall and bossa nova influences with Bridges’ sultry and smooth vocals and the background singers in perfect harmony. The track literally transports you to the Caribbean or to Europe where the nights are longer and designed for the perfect dance for a cozy date night on the dance floor.

The album then segues from nightlife cozy date night vibes to the laid-back yet content vibes in “Talk It Over.” The surf n’ turf acoustic driven track features Bridges’ vocals and Kitto’s background vocal chorus in sync as it explores the age-old conundrum of making plans and making the most out of it whether it’s a friends’ hangout or making plans with a special someone.

“Take My Hand” ends the record on a chill soul vibe high, featuring bass guitars playing over Bridges’ vocals and evoking pain and sorrow while emphasizing that the person is there for the good times and the bad times.

Leon Bridges’ Happiness Anytime relinquishes joy, good times, and catch feelings of a mix of emotions, ranging from pure bliss of happiness to a romantic atmospheric medley. It comes highly recommended.

Artist Links