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As the second quarter of 2019 begins, the transition from the sometimes slow paced and drawn out feelings from the winter months to the upbeat and more positive vibes from the spring and early summer seasons starts to take place. As far as music, many fans look for that warm weather anthem or album that’s going to set the tone for the next 4-5 months of the year. One of the genres that’s usually the safe bet to deliver in that era is R&B; and fortunately for fans of the genre, they may very well be witnessing a potential golden age for both men and women in the genre. Just based off of the younger talent in general, it looks like R&B may be returning to a level many thought it would never reach again. For the women, awesome acts such as H.E.R., Nao, Syd, Jamila Woods, Kiana Lede, Summer Walker, Kehlani, SZA, Ella Mai, iyla, Ari Lennox and Kali Uchis have all made rising star or superstar careers in what seems like no time at all, as they represent a strong female movement in music that’s been long overdue. The male field is strong in its on right, with the likes of Khalid, Smino, DVSN, Brent Faiyaz, Zacari, Jacquees, Mac Ayres, Arin Ray, JMSN, 6lack and Eric Bellinger all bringing a signature sound that they make all their own whenever they release music. It’s truly an exciting time for a genre that many thought had run its course in previous years. And following in that same mold, there is a new, up and coming R&B act that has all the tools in order for to become one of the most popular artists in music. Pink Sweat$, a 26 year old product of Philadelphia, is a young and talented crooner who in very short time, has become one of the most in demand acts in R&B, seemingly overnight. Making his debut in 2018, he made an immediate impact with the success of his hit single Honesty. A guitar-laden, sensitive track, the single landed on several commercial music including a top-10 placement on the Spotify charts. This effort instantly put Pink Sweat$ in the limelight, with many fans interested in seeing what would come next for the potential star. In the same year, he would release his debut EP Volume 1 under the indie label Human Re Sources, with Honesty playing the role of the lead single. Only 6 songs in length, the project was well received and Pink Sweat$ unique style and substance given his young age could not go unnoticed. However, the project felt like a tease given it was only 15 minutes in length. Fortunately, fans would not have to wait too long as the follow up project would end up being well worth it. On March 28, Pink Sweat$ would release his second EP and first project of 2019 in Volume 2. Although similar to the first EP in runtime with a mere 14 minutes in 5 songs, there’s not a single second wasted in what is one of the best R&B projects in the past year, bar none. What most likely separates Pink Sweat$ from his contemporaries is his choice of production as well as the soulful and intimate subject matter that is often lost in the hip-hop fused R&B fans receive all too often. Volume 2 serves as a reminder of how sensitive and open R&B used to be From the male perspective; and to have a man of a young age and a unique look and sound embracing that is a necessary change for R&B. The intro track I Know is a strong tone setter for the theme of the EP. Direct, soulful and unapologetic, the song is an expression of love, devotion and commitment to a significant other without any doubts or reservation. And in an era where many songs are sung regarding heartbreak and detachment, a song about being in love with someone should engage any true R&B lover. The guitar led production, which is highlighted throughout the entire EP, also adds a unique feel to the song. That production also strings into perhaps the best part of the EP, a two part track that displays Pink Sweat$ versatility and range as an artist. The first half, Coke & Henny, Pt. 1 is a light, uptempo track that puts the woman in the perspective of a drink. Whether talking about an actual drunk or describing the woman he’s focused on, he delivers a light hearted expression of admiration and the desire to be in her presence. It’s a sensual but fun song that is guaranteed to be a favorite of anyone who listens. It’s follow up track, Coke & Henny, Pt. 2 is the complete opposite in terms of feel and sound, singing from the perspective of a person coping with a relationship that has been ended. It’s a reminiscent and somber track that is beautifully sung for one of the best songs Pink Sweat$ has released to date. The EP wraps up with two more tracks that are similar in purpose, but complete opposites in delivery and in tone. Your Side is another uptempo, guitar-assisted track from the of a former lover still holding out hope to get their ex back in their lives. Though it can sound possessive, the song is actually vulnerable from the standpoint of actually admitting and expressing that someone can have such a strong hold on the heart and mind. The fifth and final song, Body Ain’t Me, is perhaps the most personal and emotional song of the EP. Following the same signature guitar led production, Pink Sweat$ sings out to a past love with complicated history about still wanting to be with them and near them. The track highlights how time can change circumstances but feelings of possession and entitlement play a role in moving forward. Highly relatable, beautifully delivered and yet again honest, it’s an appropriate end to an excellent project. R&B music has returned to the forefront of the industry as far as most talented and diverse genres. The veteran artists continue to cater to their respective fan bases, while the younger artists look to create their own path to stardom and respect. Based off of these early efforts, Pink Sweat$ has an opportunity to be as good as any singer we’ve seen this decade. He has a unique look, perspective, ear and approach that sets him apart from his contemporaries; qualities that are displayed in full effect on this exceptional Volume 2 EP. Top Songs: 1. Coke & Henny, Pt. 1 2. I Know 3. Body Ain’t Me