Friends
Omar Apollo · 2019
22 min · 7 tracks
A genre-blurring mix of R&B and alternative pop that captures the complexities of modern relationships.
Top tracks — play these first
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Friends — The title track encapsulates the EP's exploration of platonic and romantic relationships, balancing upbeat production with introspective lyrics about connection.
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So Good — This track stands out for its catchy melody combined with heartfelt lyrics, showcasing Apollo's ability to blend emotional depth with accessible pop sensibilities.
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Ashamed — With its raw vulnerability, this song delves into feelings of guilt and longing, making it a poignant highlight that resonates deeply with listeners.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The EP showcases a mix of engaging melodies and varied production but lacks strong cohesion across its tracks.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks establish a mid-tempo groove with layered vocals and synths, while the fourth track shifts to a minimalist interlude featuring only spoken word.
- The last two tracks introduce a more introspective tone, slowing down the pace and utilizing sparse arrangements that contrast with earlier tracks.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- short bursts of emotional intimacy
- for relaxed hangouts
- introspective moments with friends
- catchy tunes for lighthearted vibes
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of lengthy compositions
- prefer high-energy dance tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in April 2019, 'Friends' is Omar Apollo's debut EP, following a series of singles that garnered attention online. At this point in his career, he was transitioning from an emerging artist into a recognized voice in contemporary music, showcasing his unique blend of styles and vulnerability.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Ruel· Daniel Caesar· Smino
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Ashamed 3:24
- 2 Kickback 2:51
- 3 Friends 3:06
- 4 There for Me (interlude) 1:23
- 5 Hearing Your Voice 4:01
- 6 So Good 4:26
- 7 Trouble 3:23
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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