S. Raekwon - “Darling”

SXSW 2022 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 2

Pairs Well With…Mount Kimbie, Frank Ocean, serpentwithfeet

Part electronic R&B and part chillwave pop, S. Raekwon sets a hazy space for his debut full-length Where I’m at Now. By filtering big melodies into an experimental, pared-back air, S. Raekwon achieves a comforting sound that is equally weird and catchy. Funky but not dance-pop, groovy but not straight soul-R&B, S. Raekwon rather takes those influences and morphs it into his own, sweetly relaxed sound. There’s some more straightforward electro-R&B ballads on Where I’m at Now too, balancing the otherwise eclectic pop offerings, both melancholy and upbeat, on his subtly adventurous debut. The NYC artist showcases at The Velveeta Room Friday night for Bayonet & Father/Daughter Records. (Kevin McStravick)