Bryson Tiller’s album, ‘Anniversary’, which was released in October of 2020, reminded me why I enjoy his music so much. His signature Trap Soul sound blending smooth R&B vocals with Trap-influenced beats is something unique to him, and it’s what sets his music apart. The album may be short, but every track feels intentional. I enjoyed the entire project, but these songs stood out the most:
● “Inhale” – Sampling Sade and SWV, it mixes nostalgia with heartbreak. It perfectly captures that feeling of wanting someone back but knowing things can’t go back to how they were.
● “Next to You” – My personal favorite. This track has a calm, late-night vibe that I connected with instantly. It’s about distance and longing for closeness with someone who feels far away. The simplicity of the beat lets Bryson’s emotions really shine through, making it feel intimate and heartfelt.
● “Always Forever” – Honest and relatable, describes how it feels to love someone who’s moved on. There’s no anger in it, just acceptance and vulnerability, which makes it hit harder.
● “Sorrows” – This one digs into self-awareness. It’s about realizing your own patterns in love and how sometimes we expect too much from people who can’t give us what we need. Smooth production with emotional depth.
● “Years Go By” – It’s a strong intro that feels reflective and confident. It’s Tiller acknowledging his growth while staying true to his roots, setting the tone for the rest of the project.
‘Anniversary’ feels like a mature version of the sound that made Tiller great. It’s heartfelt and cohesive, with enough standout moments to make it memorable. A solid, emotional listen that proves Tiller still knows how to capture real feelings through music.
