R&B singer Miguel released his fourth studio album “War & Leisure” following the success of his hit single “Skywalker” featuring rapper Travis Scott. The album rose amongst the top of the charts thanks in part to melodic beats that go from a vibrant and tropical feel like on the song “Banana Clip” to a more heavy and dramatic style like on “Wolf” featuring fellow R&B singer Quin.

The album boasts several high profile features including rappers Rick Ross, Travis Scott and a rare feature from platinum artist J.Cole on the song “Come Through and Chill”. Miguel’s silky tone works together with his bass heavy and guitar filled tracks. As with any Miguel album, the lyrics are meant to be seductive as most of his songs on the album are about love and relationships.

The album goes through its up and downs starting off with a solid first six tracks before hitting a two song lull in the middle then being picked back up on the track “Caramel Duo” featuring pop star Kali Uchis. However, fans will be disappointed to find out that Kali Uchis is more of a background singer on the track. Overall the album is solid but just misses the mark on being a truly great album.

Apart from a few stand out songs like the aforementioned “Skywalker”, “Come Through and Chill”, “Banana Clip” and “Wolf” the album is mostly good for casual listening.

OVERALL GRADE: 7/10