Multi-hyphen talent James Worthy released his sophomore project Kaleidoscopes, which debuted on Friday, Jan. 17.
This will be the second EP that the record producer and singer has released since last year.
Known for producing hit songs for other artists such as 6lack, Sammie, Blac Youngsta and Fetty Wap, Worthy’s first solo project and debut EP, Blu Leisure, dropped on Jan. 11, 2019.
His follow-up, Kaleidoscopes, contains collaborations with Ray Lavender, Ruff Endz, Drag-On, Truth Hurts and Jillisa Lynn.
The project is executive produced by Humble Sound Music Group. K-R.O.K of PM Dawn is co-executive producer of the seven song project.
On Kaleidoscopes, Worthy delivers a sexy, refined sound dancing between traditional R&B and Hip Hop. He opens with “I Wanna Know”, a sultry adventure full of echoing sentiments and dreamy production. Worthy’s sound feels like the natural elements of the Earth. Fire, water and wind comes to mind as he so effortlessly serenades each word.
“Gone Get It” featuring Ray Lavender and Ruff Endz is another beautiful love song by Worthy reminiscent of true R&B music. The song is about sex, yet it comes off cleverly polite and classy. Who wouldn’t want to “give it” after being asked the way Worthy, Lavender and Ruff Endz puts it down?
“Bae Cation” breaks meditation mode with a more upbeat, rhythmic dance tempo. Drag-On and Worthy’s collaborative effort is straight to the point as they glide over the snapping beat with a catchy hook in tow. Undeniable, the two deliver a solid anthem that’s sure to hit.
One of the most notable songs on the EP comes from the sentimental “This Wave” featuring R&B darling Shari Watson-Krammer, better known by her stage name Truth Hurts. “This Wave” is the type of song for memorable moments and passionate love making. Truth Hurts still got the IT factor that sends chills down the spine and reminds us why “Truth” is in her name. She’s the truth. Worthy’s signature crooning and his ability to make hit hooks rounds out the song, leaving the listener with a heavenly and pleasurable experience.
Worthy really shows the evolution in his writing skills and singing ability on “Higher & Higher”. The seductive mid-tempo is packed with endearing lyrics that mix realism with ambitious goals. The song is all about elevation, hence the title. The elevation of career, relationship and simply passion.
Worthy follows up with “Show Me”, a mid-to-high tempo love song filled with guitar riffs, synths, bass and layered singing. The borderline rock sound, along with the climatic breakdown in the middle, solidifies Worthy’s impact in music. It would absolutely be insane not to recognize him for his mainstream appeal, while simultaneously acknowledging his spot-on connection to classic R&B.
The EP ends on a remix of “This Wave” featuring “Don’t Bother” singer Jillisa Lynn, who blesses listeners with a sweet and tempting delivery. It’s the perfect way to end a well-rounded project that definitely gets a 10 out of 10 from The MouthSoap team.
