By: Tayhana Taylor, Contributing Writer
After heightened anticipation, singer-songwriter Bryson Tiller released his third R&B/Souls studio album titled “Anniversary” on Oct. 3, 2020.
It is indeed an anniversary for Tiller—the artist released his debut album “Trapsoul ” in 2015, making it the 5th anniversary of his first album. The album consists of 10 songs, including one where he features rapper, Drake in the song “Outta Time.”
Bryson Tiller’s album “Anniversary” is 31 minutes long. (Photo Credit: Apple Music)
Before his latest, it had been 3 years since Tiller last released an album. He had set the bar exceptionally high with his first album, “Trapsoul,” and outdid himself on his second album, “True to Self.” Both albums ranked high on the United States Billboard 200 list.
These accomplishments had fans on the edge of their seats waiting for their ears to be blessed with Tiller’s new music. Unfortunately, those expectations were not met—this album was an acquired taste.
The album took three listens to gain some liking towards it. This album lacked the versatility of Tiller’s previous albums, which had a mixture of upbeat rhythm, smooth souls, and vibrant beats. With “Anniversary,” it sounded like one continuous scratch record with different lyrics.
Bryson Tiller purchased several billboards aimed at promoting his album, but instead used them to pay tribute to Breonna Taylor. (Photo Credit: Bryson Tiller (@brysontiller)
Tiller’s music usually gives a mixture of mellow vibes, romance, and a hint of lust; his previous works made a person go from feeling in love to feeling heartbroken in the same beat. This album made me want to skip from the intro song, “Years Go By,” to the outro song, “Next to You.” It was very monotonous.
In comparison to other albums released in early October—such as 21 Savage’s “Savage Mode II”—Tiller’s album was below the bar. The aim of the album, based on its Apple Music description, is to “envelope the push-pull of romance and the mindsets that lead to ecstasy and turmoil in turns.” The aim of the album was not met.
One thing I did appreciate about the artist’s musical style on the album was that Tiller stuck to his style of rapping and singing throughout the album. This did not make the album any less yawn-inducing, but I did applaud Tiller for giving his fans the musical technique they know and love.
“Anniversary” was produced by Nineteen85, Vinylz and Noah “40” Shebib. (Photo Credit: YouTube Music)
The two songs on the album caught my attention were “Years Go By” and “Outta Time.” “Years Go by” is the introductory song on the album. It has a combination of rap mixed with instrumentals and the beat was somewhat lively, even though the lyrics were not catchy. Tiller uses this song as the intro to his album, as years have gone by since he last released an album. Additionally, “Outta Time”—Tiller’s collaboration with Drake—saved the album. Drake’s rapping flow and Tiller’s harmonization fit together like pieces of a puzzle; both artists complemented each other’s musical style without one overshadowing the other.
In my opinion, “Anniversary” was not Tiller’s best work in comparison to his former album. Nonetheless, he is an exceptional artist that has made great music and will continue to do so because of his talent. I rate this album a 2.5/5 Paws; I would not recommend the album, but neither would I discourage a person from giving it a listen.
