Canadian R&B artist Daniel Caesar released his fourth studio album, “Son of Spergy,” under Republic Records on Oct. 24. The album is a personal piece, providing listeners with a glimpse into Caesar’s relationship with his late father and his faith. It is spiritual and soft spoken, following themes of gospel and the soul. With a melodic blend of intense vocals and powerful instrumental, Caesar’s 12-track album comes to life through collaborations with other artists.
Caesar holds accolades for hits like “Get You,” “Best Part” and his feature “Peaches” with Justin Bieber. He stays faithful to the identity of an independent artist, writing his own songs with his guitar sparking lyricism. On a nostalgic and sentimental note, “Spergy” was his father’s nickname.
The album opens quietly with “Rain Down (Feat. Sampha),” a spiritual plea for blessings. With lulling notes of a piano and a background voicing the gospel, “Lord, let your blessing rain down on me” is a request for peace and love. The next track, “Have A Baby (With Me)” also carries a piano instrumental, diving into the vulnerable desire of wanting a baby with one he loves. However, Caesar captures a partner who has already checked out of the relationship: “It’s too late for our dreams.”
“Call On Me” veers in a different direction, grungier and more rugged, as an electric guitar takes the stage. The narrator in this track paints a selfless image as he is willing to give anything for the one he loves. Next, “Baby Blue (Feat. Norwill Simmonds)” feels like a hug, slow and meaningful, that depicts the warmth of being chosen: “So many colors to choose from but you chose blue, I choose you.”
Track 5, “Root of all Evil,” touches on the polarity of sinning. In a way, it is a letter to himself that discusses the inner turmoil of admitting to his own shortcomings. He also implies that his struggles with temptation lead him to pondering his own identity. In “Who Knows,” Caesar describes insecurity in his relationship and in himself. He feels as if he is lesser and that he is not worthy of his partner’s love, singing: “If I am like the sky, you are like the sea staring back at me.” After listing his confessions he lingers on an open-ended note: “who knows?”
Following is “Moon (Feat. Bon Iver),” in which Caesar questions faith and seeks answers, guiding the listener with the soft strumming of the guitar. “Touching God (Feat. Yebba & Blood Orange)” is a plea and a maze through the self hatred that Ceaser finds as he struggles with his faith. The slow plucking of the guitar and faded background vocals are comforting.
“Sign Of The Times” picks up the tempo, exploring a spiritual love and how faith intertwines with it. “Emily’s Song” illustrates a beautiful yet bittersweet reflection on a past relationship. Although they are no longer romantically involved, Caesar is thankful for what he learned: “I just wanna thank you, for being my mirror.” Nearing the end, “No More Loving (On Women I Don’t Love) (Feat. 646yf4t),” is a cry for a genuine love rather than an unintentional one. Bon Iver returns on “Sins Of The Father (Feat. Bon Iver)” to close out the album.
Through his soulful lyrics and collaborations with artists, Caesar crafts an intimate album that speaks to his artistry. Themes of self discovery and an overarching religious inspiration are prominent. His love for his late father shines though as the album covers grief over loved ones and lost relationships.
Rating: 4/5
