A deeper level of brilliant.
Not content with just being one of the best-connected men in pop, Dev Hynes is serious about establishing his own musical legacy. He struck gold with 2013’s second
Blood Orange album ‘
Cupid Deluxe’ but follow up ‘
Freetown Sound’ is an altogether more expansive, intimate and personal work that sees Hynes try to make his definitive life’s work.
The album is a record aware of its own importance. Hynes has put everything into the 17 tracks here and his soul bearing, heart felt honesty gives the music a keening, plaintive quality that is both endearing and compelling. You want to hear what he’s got to say and the fact it’s set against wonderfully smooth luxurious soul and funk jams is a bonus. .embed-container { position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%; } .embed-container iframe, .embed-container object, .embed-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; }
The songs here tell the story of Hynes well travelled life as a black man and the experiences he has faced. It deals in big themes and big issues and as such Hynes appropriately steps up his game as a songwriter and lyricist, particularly on the deeply affecting ‘
Hands Up’ and the inspiring ‘
But You’ which features the key lyric: “You were special in your own way” a line that could perfectly sum up Hynes’ recording career.
