After Rayvn Lanae’s highly anticipated debut “HYPNOS,” fans have been eager to see her next project. On August 9, the 25-year-old singer released her sophomore record “Bird’s Eye,” 11 tracks of pure bliss.
Esteemed producer Dahi worked alongside Lenae on “Bird’s Eye.” His distinct and smooth sound shines on the project as it has on other music he’s produced, such as “Money Trees” with Kendrick Lamar and “Used” by SZA fr. Don Toliver.
Lenae opens the album with “Genius.” The track is melodic and sonic perfection, blending synth rhythms with the heartfelt strings of R&B. It sets the tone for the rest of the project; catchy choruses complete with thoughtful instrumentals.
Lenae’s angelic vocals are layered on tracks to create a peaceful whisper effect. On “One Wish” featuring Childish Gambino, the two artists blend to create a relaxing harmony. The lyrics dwell on a relationship, discussing how a wish couldn’t be wasted on the other despite how strong the feelings the two parties have for each other are.
The sixth track, “Love Is Blind,” opens with an independent harp sound. About 20 seconds into the song, synth intertwines as Lenae’s vocals shine. On the chorus she sings: “You aren’t the one for me/If it tasted bittersweet/How am I giving you room in my mind.”
Other standout tracks on the project include “From Scratch,” which upholds the traditional R&B sound of the 90s but interweaves subtle hints of early 2000s’ alternative, as well as “1 of 1,” which brings a new, upbeat sound to the album and breathless lyrics.
“Bird’s Eye” ends with the track “Days.” Lenae begins the conversational track with a breathy countdown, “1, 2…1,2,3.” The track feels very down-to-earth, talking directly to a partner that had feelings for her first but ended up breaking her heart. It’s incredibly honest and emotional, but the subtle combination of percussion and acoustic guitar keep the track more lighthearted than the lyrics let on.
Each track weaves in a similar sound, truly defining the project as a collective reflection rather than standalone chapters. Ravyn Lenae’s vocals and steady rhythms make each track flow together to tell a story; listeners can’t skip a single song. It’s an album that showcases the importance of ordering tracks and how they can work together to create a narrative rather than shuffled at the listener’s request.
Rayvn Lenae is touring North America and Europe this fall, as well as Aminé and Omar Apollo for one-off performances in the next few weeks. You can find tickets here: https://www.ravynlenae.com