Leon Bridges‘ second full-length album Good Thing is a break in form, a venture that has him reaching into uncharted territory. For fans of Coming Home it’ll be a departure from his Otis Redding-like approach to songwriting. Instead he adopts a more mature sound that has him exploring new landscapes—everything from contemporary r&b to the Purple Snow musings of Prince. Always true to form, Bridges doesn’t let the new digs deter him from what he does best which is speak from the heart.
Good Thing is more modernized. It’s edgier, but at the same time Bridges isn’t necessarily looking to reinvent himself. He takes meticulous steps, and stays true to his style by not letting the change in scenery distract him. At only 10 songs, Bridges doesn’t have a lot of room to work with but he maximizes each effort by taking the less is more approach; he puts everything into each narrative, unafraid to make himself vulnerable. It’s a big step in his career and proves that he’s ready to command a larger stage.
‘Bet Ain’t Worth the Hand‘
Bridges opens with a definitive statement on love. He’s not being romantic or over sentimental, but rather looking at it from a universal perspective. He’s extending a hand to his brothers and sisters, and ensuring them that’ll he’ll be there as a friend and confidant. It’s a Bill Withers approach to songwriting that shows how far he’s come, a call to action that anyone with heart can take part in: [LISTEN]
‘Bad Bad News‘
Bridges stumbles upon a love so good it’s bad. He’s spellbound and opening himself up to her magical ways. The groove is understated and cool, a Grant Green-like vibe that adds a potent dose of sophistication. His love is blossoming and instead of sitting idle and letting life pass him by he’s taking charge and seizing the moment. Her love is his inspiration, both transformative and awe-inspiring: [LISTEN]
‘Shy‘
A polished beat has Bridges embracing an edgier sound. It’s about desire, but not so raunchy that it reveals more than it needs to. He’s an introvert and so is she, and the hope is that together they can let their hair down and at the very least become ambiverts. It’s hard for him to get out of his shell, but she’s so beautiful and compelling that he can’t help but at least try: [LISTEN]
‘Beyond‘
This is it, he’s found his princess, his numero uno. It’s a daring move, but he’s willing to set his fears aside and make a leap of faith; relying exclusively on the power of love. With his mind set, he’s forging on with steadfast determination. Every step is met with uncertainty, but deep down inside he knows that he has to take a chance or else he’ll regret it for the rest of his life: [LISTEN]
‘Forgive You‘
Heartbroken and at a loss for words, Bridges desperately tries to piece himself back together. He did everything for her, and despite her constant disregard he still can’t help but feel he could have done more. Being a doormat doesn’t suit him well, and even his friends are saying that he should forget about her. But once he’s committed it’s for life, a tattoo on his heart that won’t fade: [LISTEN]
‘Lions‘
A stripped down backdrop has him channeling his inner D’Angelo. It’s a fitting sound that frames his voice well, allowing for his simple lyrics to shine without him having to overdo it. His passion for life and love is keeping him hungry, a lion in the Serengeti waiting to make its move. Her kiss is bringing the animal out in him, and he’s roaring in delight over her tender touch: [LISTEN]
‘If it Feels Good (Then it Must Be)‘
The pace picks up and he gets his Usher on; same buoyant delivery where it sounds like he’s smiling the whole time he’s singing. The content isn’t as heavy, and he’s letting his heart take him to wherever he wants to go. The breakthrough is well-earned, and a chance for him to let go of past indiscretions. The pain is lingering, but he’s moving on knowing that there’s always more ahead: [LISTEN]
‘You Don’t Know‘
His exploration of different styles takes him down a more playful route. There’s a Prince-like flirtatiousness to it, particularly when he hits his falsetto, that brings the senses back to the ’80s. It’s all about the groove and while it is a notable change of pace he doesn’t venture too far from his wheelhouse. He’s turned a creative corner, and allowing himself some room to dabble: [LISTEN]
‘Mrs.‘
A silky blues lick has him reminiscing over his most painful moments. The memories are seeping back into his consciousness and the sting of a shattered relationship is leaving him sour. When he needed her the most she not only left him but treated it as if his pain were child’s play. Despite her indifference he still can’t help but submit to her; her sultry touch, the Kryptonite to his Superman: [LISTEN]
‘Georgia to Texas‘
Bridges returns to his bread and butter, a slow roasting effort that has him projecting deep emotion. The backdrop incorporates elements of jazz, which inspires him to explore a wide range of ideas. He’s penning a ‘thank you’ letter to his mother, and the courage she displayed when she ventured out to seek a better life. He owes everything to her, and is honoring her by maximizing his talents: [LISTEN]
