Baltimore-based producer and singer Kennard is rather adamant about the ethos behind his latest album, ‘Proceed 2’. “I love old school music, I just wanted to tell a story and bring back the good old R&B”, he eloquently explains. It makes sense, as today we seem to have lost the art of writing sultry, charming and nocturne-driven soul goodness. Well, Kennard is on a mission to revive the genre.
‘Proceed 2’ is the strongest evidence of that. Built on smooth and bouncy R&B, the record develops over soothing and texture-packed production. Blending modern, tropical and afro-infused rhythms with 90s-flavoured melodies, Kennard delivers an album that feels traditional, yet also contemporary and ever-relevant. The contrast between ‘Cater 2 U, Pt. 2’ and ‘Simple Things’ illustrates such concept perfectly. Hip-hop is never far away, and Kennard takes an eclectic approach to it all.
Lyrically, ‘Proceed 2’ was inspired by daily life and painful happenings, acting as escapism and reflection around Kennard’s actual experiences. From writing about his aunt and uncle’s passing to his newfound love for traditional R&B, the record is a work of art and love, consolidated over the course of two years. As the American creative playfully reminds us: “Rome was not built in a day, take your time!”.
Recommended! Discover ‘Proceed 2’ on Spotify:
