XG followers are spoiled for alternative, because it appears the group are continuously releasing new materials. They’re presently on their world tour — a truth I solely know as a result of each web site I go to appears to be promoting this to me. Within the midst of this, they’ve additionally launched new single In The Rain. This observe dives additional into their mid-tempo R&B facet, although there are nonetheless loads of hip-hop influences to be discovered.

A few of my favourite songs of all time fall inside this sonic soundscape, however as with every piece of music these tracks are usually anchored by immortal melodies. I’ve discovered it tougher to attach with the up to date R&B scene for this very purpose. Emphasis appears to be positioned on melodic buildings which are virtually freeform in a conversational approach. This could work for an artist who has a singular imaginative and prescient and persona, but it surely’s harder for an agency-created group like XG. At worst, it veers dangerously near cosplay. At greatest… it’s just a bit uninteresting.

XG actually have the expertise to assist a music like In The Rain. Their vocals sound beautiful and are particularly efficient in the course of the moments the place concord takes priority. Nonetheless, the music feels unmoored and overly ethereal with out an instantly-memorable hook to offer it focus. The refrain misses this opportunity, too wordy and circuitous to stay. It’s very a lot a “vibe,” and also you all understand how I really feel about that.

Grade: C