Music

The Grammys’ New Best Progressive R&B Album Category Is Here, And It’s Awesome

Getty Image / Uproxx Studios The new category revamps the Academy’s previous attempts at honoring hip-hop-influenced R&B. …

The Grammys have a new category this year. In an effort to better recognize the increasing breadth and variety of modern R&B, they’ve split the R&B Album category into two: Best Progressive R&B and Best R&B. The new range allows them to nominate more artists — five each — and give the nod to non-traditional contemporary R&B artists who aren’t forced to compete with genre mainstays like Alicia Keys and John Legend.

Although the Grammys have tried similar moves in the past, this year’s move is timely, as the style of some R&B has been reshaped by contributions from alt-rock, ambient music, hip-hop, EDM, trap, and other styles to make it something far more futuristic but still rooted in the tenets of the sound established in the late ’80s and early ’90s. From 2003 to 2011, more hip-hop-influenced albums could be found under Best Contemporary R&B Album, but they were shifted back to the main category after 2011. The new category was created as Best Urban Contemporary Album, but that name was phased out as a result of longstanding criticisms and the industry-wide revamping of “Urban” classifications after this summer’s “Blackout Tuesday.”

According to the Recording Academy, the new category “is intended to highlight albums that include the more progressive elements of R&B and may include samples and elements of hip-hop, rap, dance, and electronic music. It may also incorporate production elements found in pop, euro-pop, country, rock, folk, and alternative.” For its inaugural clutch of nominees, the Academy has acknowledged Chloe X Halle, Jhené Aiko, Free Nationals, Robert Glasper, and Thundercat. The traditional category includes Ant Clemons, Giveon, Gregory Porter, John Legend, and Luke James.

Artist Spotlight

Mamas Gun and Brian Jackson shines light on the truth on latest release “DIG!”

Mamas Gun makes a strong comeback with their new single “DIG!.” The track sounds more like a strong statement of intent than just a release. The UK band is known for its smooth blend of blue-eyed soul and traditional black music. They show once again that they can make music that sounds both thoughtful and very new, while still being real, emotional, and sophisticated.

“DIG!” was recorded directly onto analogue tape, and every note has warmth, grit, and soul. The production choice gives the music a rich, natural sound that complements the band’s unique groove. It is a piece of music that makes people slow down, really listen, and experience it rather than hear it.

Adding famous collaborator Brian Jackson, whose vocals, keyboard, and flute give the song a timeless elegance, adds even more depth and magic. Jackson is known for working with artists such as Stevie Wonder, Gil Scott-Heron, Roy Ayers, and Earth, Wind & Fire. His addition makes the song something truly special. His reunion with Andy Platts, the lead singer of Mamas Gun, almost twenty years after they first worked together creatively in New York, gives “DIG!” a very personal touch that can be felt throughout. “DIG!” sets a strong mood based on connection, art, and essence. Mamas Gun not only goes back to their roots but also makes them stronger. This song is heartfelt, timeless, and completely captivating.

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Artist Spotlight

Bromsen crafts a suspension between attachment and release in new single “Concendrain”

Bromsen’s latest release, “Concendrain,” is very immersive and lives in the space between control and disintegration. The song smoothly shifts from focused to tired, from connected to free, and captures a complex emotional balance that is both personal and universal.

“Concendrain” starts slowly and carefully, the structure has layers that change over time, so each part can come out on its own without any stress or hurry. As time goes on, electronic textures begin to emerge, giving the music a mood that eventually turns into rock-infused energy. These different sounds don’t clash, they work together to create a track that is alive, fluid, and always changing.

The guitar, voice, and rhythm should all work together on the song. These parts don’t compete for attention; instead, they work together to make a smooth flow that pulls the listener into the song’s emotional depth. The arrangement features vocals that complement complex guitar lines and a steady beat that keeps everything in line.

“Concendrain” is really interesting because it has two sides. The track is about the fight in your head between giving up and pushing through, and between staying focused and giving in to tiredness. Bromsen and Reatsch work together to make something that looks natural and well-made. “Concendrain” doesn’t try to be cool or follow trends. Instead, it gives you a slow experience that you should really pay attention to. “Concendrain” is a powerful and thought-provoking work that sticks with you long after the last note has faded away. It stands out because its structure changes, its atmosphere is rich, and its emotions are strong.

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