Leon Bridges: LEON – Relics

Texas-born Leon Bridges began his career by paying homage to a beloved classic sound: His 2015 debut. Coming home it felt like a companion album to a Sam Cooke classic. But the copper-voiced singer-songwriter didn’t stay in that nostalgic atmosphere. Rather, with each album, he seems to focus on his own iconic style. Perhaps that is why he called his fourth plate Leon; this collection of 13 songs is refreshingly personal and hauntingly beautiful. Bridges traveled to Mexico to record these warm, ethereal R&B tunes that are illuminated by twinkling live instruments. Simply put, Bridges is among the best at what he does. You won’t find soul music that feels as unique, authentic and damn good as this anywhere else in 2024. Bridges’ 2020 collaboration with groove masters Khruangbin makes its mark here too – second single ‘Laredo’ paints an impressionistic evening on Town in Texas, the singer vibrates with a new lover over a heart-pounding bass line and swirling flute. “[She] grew up in a border town, took me on an empty dive/ Such a beautiful silhouette, show me how to two-step,” he croons. “What if I stay in Laredo just one more night?” It’s sexy, it’s flirty, it’s magic. On Leon’s first song, “When a Man Cries,” Bridges opens her chest and lets her heart pour out over echoing piano and a steady beat: “Turn my pain into power/ My fear into desire.” That opening volley floats through album – a generational talent facing self-doubt and showing his true colors. It’s a spectacular start to an album that weaves between soaring soul ballads (“Never Satisfied”) and a rippling groove (“Peaceful Place”).