The Standards Issue #2: Lucky Daye, Muni Long, Normani, and More

It's time for The Standards, where we tell you if some singles are worth the listen, featuring Lucky Daye, Muni Long, Normani, Kehlani, Amber Mark, Roddy Ricch, Maeta, Hiatus Kaiyote, and more.

The Standards Issue is your go-to place to find out if the latest popular albums/singles are actually good. We’ll tell you straight up if an album/single is worth your time or if you should skip it. No confusing words or fancy talk here, just honest reviews from people who know their stuff.

In each Standards Issue, we’ll look at the most talked-about albums in the mainstream. We’ll tell you what works and what doesn’t and give you the real deal on the lyrics, beats, and overall vibe. By the end, you’ll know if an album/single lives up to the hype or if it’s just a bunch of noise. So if you want to stay up on the latest music without wasting your time on the duds, keep checking back for new Standards Issues.

“Soft” — Lucky Daye

Lucky Daye does not miss. His third album, Algorithm, is locked in for a June 28th release, and he decides to give us another heater. “Soft” is a song about being under the control of a love interest. Over a Yacht Rock-type production, the lyrics use metaphors to describe the all-consuming feeling of love. The singer uses contrasting imagery to depict the powerful sense of love. Lines such as “Butter seems so strange, but I never complain ‘cause it feels like heaven” describe a confusing but pleasurable feeling.

“It’s cold out, and it’s hard to let go.”

The lyrics also describe the physical effects of being in love. Lucky mentions “got me on your string like a symphony” and “shaking every time that you kiss me” on the hook to depict the physical effects of being around the love interest. The song is about the complex and powerful feeling of being in love. The lyrics use vivid imagery and metaphors to capture the all-consuming nature of love.

Rating Recommendation: Two Thumbs Up (👍👍)

“ETA?” — Durand Bernarr

If you don’t know, Durand Bernarr released his En Route EP and it’s flames. Let me put you on to my favorite song with “ETA.” Bernarr’s soulful vocals further enhance the emotional impact of the lyrics, his expressive delivery perfectly conveying the yearning and desire in the words. The catchy melody and hook make the song instantly memorable and enjoyable to listen to, while the relatable lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the anticipation and excitement of waiting for a loved one. The musical style is reminiscent of classic R&B while incorporating contemporary elements that make it sound fresh and current. Do not miss out on your blessings, boo!

Rating Recommendation: Two Thumbs Up (👍👍)

“Love Heart Cheat Code” — Hiatus Kaiyote

Hiatus Kaiyote never lets us down with the title track of their upcoming album. “Love Heart Cheat Code” is a fun and infectious song that moves you. The lyrics are playful and suggestive, referencing love and desire lightheartedly. Nai Palm uses metaphors to compare love to a roadrunner and a flower bomb, suggesting it can be exciting and dangerous. The funky grooves, catchy melodies, and playful lyrics make it a perfect example of Hiatus Kaiyote’s signature sound.

Rating Recommendation: Thumb Up & Half (👍½)

“Space & Time” — Amber Mark

Amber Mark. Where is your second album, girl? Her second release of the year, “Space & Time,” uses metaphors of space and time to express the deep connection between two people. The music itself reinforces this feeling of otherworldliness. The song opens with soft, melancholic piano chords that create a sense of intimacy. A steady beat and soulful vocals enter, building towards a mighty chorus that showcases Mark’s impressive vocal range.

Rating Recommendation: Thumb Up & Half (👍½)

“Made Me Forget” — Muni Long

Muni Long got another one. “Make Me Forget” is another ballad about being in love with someone who isn’t good for you. The music is a slow and soulful R&B beat with Muni’s strong vocals at the center. The lyrics paint a picture of a passionate but unhealthy relationship. Muni sings about being with someone who doesn’t understand or respect her. She needs a strong and independent partner, but the person she’s with is constantly making mistakes. Despite this, Muni admits that she’s “insane” for this person and can’t leave them, even though she knows she should.

Rating Recommendation: Thumbs Up (👍)

“Mood for You” — Lalah Hathaway feat. MC Lyte

Lalah Hathaway unleashes her third single from Vantablack, which drops on June 14th. “Mood for You” is a sensual R&B song with a touch of hip-hop. The instrumentation, provided by Warryn Campbell, is smooth and mellow, featuring a prominent bass line, light percussion, and shimmering keys. Hathaway’s vocals are soulful and inviting, while MC Lyte’s raps add a layer of coolness and confidence about passion, connection, and being open to new experiences.

Rating Recommendation: Thumbs Up (👍)

“DJ Got Me” — Maeta

Maeta’s season is approaching as she prepares for her Endless Night EP. Her first single, “DJ Got Me,” is a KAYTRANADA-produced banger heavily relying on an uptempo dance beat that compliments Maeta’s vocals. The song interpolates Indeep’s “Last Night a DJ Saved My Life.” This is most evident in the repeated lyrics “DJ Got Me,” which directly references the Indeep song’s famous lyrics “Last Night a DJ Saved My Life.” However, the meaning is playfully subverted. In the Indeep song, the DJ saves the singer from a broken heart. In “DJ Got Me,” Maeta sings about being compelled to dance and not wanting to leave the dance floor. The DJ is not a savior but the source of pleasurable and irresistible music.

Rating Recommendation: Thumbs Up (👍)

“Survivors Remorse” — Roddy Ricch

Roddy Ricch used to be one of the premier artists early this decade. “The Box” took over in 2020, thanks to his decent debut album, but despite “Late @ Night” being a minor hit, his second album, Live Life Fast, came and went, and his Feed tha Streets III mixtape two years ago. He’s back with “Survivors Remorse,” which features a dark and brooding beat with heavy bass and hi-hats. Ricch raps in a slow and measured flow, delivering lyrics about the challenges of success. He explores the emotional toll of fame and fortune. Ricch mentions child support payments and the strain it puts on him. He talks about falling out with friends due to pride and hints at feelings of isolation. Despite the challenges, Ricch asserts his perseverance and loyalty to his friends and family. We only hope that this upcoming album or mixtape carries that energy.

Rating Recommendation: Thumbs Up (👍)

“Next 2 U” — Kehlani

Free Palestine! Kehlani released her second single for her upcoming release, Crash. In “Next 2 U,” the singer expresses her profound love and commitment to her significant other. She declares that their love is more important to her than her well-being and that she would even sacrifice their companionship. Kehlani compares her love to the sun and a wide river, emphasizing its unwavering and all-encompassing nature. She promises to share her secrets and be there for them in return for their love and support. Kehlani is determined to stay by their side despite potential obstacles and will not let anyone come between them.

Rating Recommendation: Thumbs Up (👍)

“Candy Paint” — Normani

Normani is gearing up for her highly-anticipated debut album and decided to surprise-release her long-awaited single for her die-hards, “Candy Paint.” Musically, it’s a confident and sassy anthem. The song is based on a fast-tempo beat with heavy use of drums and electronic sounds that harken back to the 2000s. The lyrics are suggestive and boastful, as Normani sings about her money, looks, and ability to attract men. In the production, the use of auto-tune and other vocal effects is prominent, creating a modern and stylized sound, but it’s nothing to write home about.

Rating Recommendation: Sideways Thumb (👍🏼)