'Language,' the debut album from MNEK, reinvents the staple, clean ‘90s pop aesthetic for modern audience. Writing at a prolific pace with clarity and authority, he presents himself in a celebratory fashion as a proud gay black man.
Having already penned tunes for Dua Lipa, Beyonce and Rudimental, the Londoner has been something of a secret ingredient working behind the scenes until now, and the thing that flares in his own sound is a sense of drama. 'Language' infuses full volume feels with roaring crescendos and big choruses as MNEK sings about freedom and the struggles in his quest for self acceptance.
Unfortunately, that road isn’t without its potholes. His clichés can feel too much and, while the writing is romantic and confident, it’s occasionally weakened by a Disney-esque approach to melody on tracks like Free and Crazy World.
That’s perfect for those fans who are here for his unbridled delivery and broad vocal range, but to those more inspired by his understated house vocal features the album will fall flat.
In truth 'Language' is also heavily front loaded. Early tracks Correct, Tongue and Colour (featuring the only collaboration, with Hailee Steinfeld) are brilliant enough alone to carry the whole thing. Introducing us to slick production and genre-blending electronic arrangements, the energy contained to these sassy songs is infectious. At its best, 'Language' is an album engineered for fun, written to be enjoyed with friends, or played at a party to lift the mood.
Although MNEK is capable of a more dynamic body of work, what feels tangible here is the enjoyment found in writing and recording this music. Representing himself unapologetically, he fuses sounds and sentiments designed to reassure those in his audience of their potential and the right to be whoever they feel they are.
MNEK Upcoming Tour Dates are as follows:
Tue October 09 2018 - MANCHESTER Manchester Gorilla
Wed October 10 2018 - BIRMINGHAM O2 Institute2 Birmingham
Thu October 11 2018 - LONDON Scala
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