Combining the reflective heat of ’90s R&B with gospel touches and a resilient hip-hop sensibility, Kay Soul serves it up righteous on her new project, “Heavy Set,” a soulful 12-track journey that dares to challenge society’s expectations while championing self-respect and inner strength.
Running just under 37 minutes, “Heavy Se” is not only purposeful but also empowering. Kay Soul has said the album is “the diary entries to my soul,” and that level of sincerity seeps through each note. The album addresses both the twisted societal pressures of conforming to prescribed beauty standards and measuring success by arbitrary standards, as well as the necessity of self-love and truth.
The emotional “Heavy Set (Intro)” dives headfirst into what will comprise the body of an album filled with reflective thought, surrounded by rich harmonies and layers of atmospheric production. The standout lead single, “In Between,” delivers an uplifting energy and inspires you to find gratitude in life’s unpredictable moments. Conversely, “Corinthians Love” and “Earth Angel “demonstrate Kay Soul’s prowess of combining gospel spirit with R&B soul, whereas tracks like “On the Block” and “Fame” bring in gritty Hip Hop sensibilities.
Throughout the collection, Kay’s vocals sleuth between sleek silkiness and rugged conviction, underpinned by production that’s both timeless and ahead of its time. Whether it’s the openness of “Shell of Me” or the outright statement of purpose in “You Will Remember Me,” the album itself is about power through truth-telling and strength in weakness. In “Heavy Set,” Kay Soul presents a truth that is beautiful and powerful. For anybody who’s hungering for soul-healing, uplifting music that comes right from the gut, “Heavy Set” is a cause.
Connect with Kay Soul on Instagram – @kaysoulmusic
