New Breed
Dawn Richard · 2019
32 min · 10 tracks · contemporary R&B
A vibrant fusion of contemporary R&B and experimental pop, layered with personal narratives and rich sonic textures.
Top tracks — play these first
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New Breed — This title track encapsulates the album’s themes of transformation and empowerment, presenting a bold declaration of identity through its rhythmic intricacy and lyrical depth.
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Vultures | Wolves — Blending haunting melodies with piercing lyrics, this track showcases Richard's ability to convey vulnerability while addressing societal challenges, making it a standout moment on the album.
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Jealousy — With its infectious beat and introspective lyrics, Jealousy explores complex emotions surrounding personal relationships, revealing Richard's nuanced storytelling abilities.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends personal narratives with innovative production, creating a distinct sound within contemporary R&B.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a spoken-word intro that sets a thematic tone, followed by a title track that introduces layered vocal harmonies and electronic beats.
- Tracks like 'Jealousy' and 'Vultures | Wolves' feature contrasting dynamics, shifting from subdued verses to explosive choruses.
- The outro, 'Ketchup and Po Boys', incorporates elements of jazz and soul, providing a reflective conclusion that contrasts with the energetic earlier tracks.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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
- vibrant personal storytelling
- short bursts of energy
- reflective moments between tracks
- eclectic soundscape exploration
- late-night introspection sessions
Maybe skip if you
- seeking lengthy immersive journeys
- prefer straightforward catchy singles
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By the release of New Breed, Dawn Richard had established herself as a solo artist following her tenure with Danity Kane. This album marked her fourth studio effort and represented a significant evolution in her sound as she delved deeper into themes of identity and resilience, solidifying her position within the independent music scene.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Kelela· Janelle Monáe· SZA
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Nine (intro) 1:25
- 2 New Breed 3:35
- 3 Spaces 3:10
- 4 Dreams and Converse 3:17
- 5 Shades 3:41
- 6 Jealousy 3:41
- 7 Sauce 3:20
- 8 Vultures | Wolves 5:42
- 9 We, Diamonds 3:27
- 10 Ketchup and Po Boys (outro) 1:17
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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