Rating: NNNN
The arrangement of its material can make or break a compilation album, and on Saint Heron, the first release under eclectic singer/songwriter Solange Knowles’s boutique label, Saint Records, the younger Knowles weaves a collection of alt-R&B songs together seamlessly. (One welcome thread: her dedication to making each artist’s voice the focal point for his or her respective track.)
Seizing the opportunity to showcase artists who haven’t received their share of mainstream shine, Solange has made a record worthy of the hype that seems to follow her every move these days. Standouts include Sampha’s reverberating slow jam Beneath The Tree, Kelela’s Go All Night (be prepared for emotional Aaliyah feelings) and India Shawn’s affirmation-heavy I’m Alive. Jhené Aiko continues her winning streak with Drinking & Driving, and Cassie floats on Indo, written and produced by Solange herself. The album closer, the curator’s own Cash In, channels her True EP from 2012.
Top track: Beneath The Tree
