Chasing Summer

If trip-hop had been created in sunny Inglewood, California, instead of downcast Bristol, it might sound a lot like Chasing Summer. It’s mood-intensive and takes unexpected stylistic shifts, yet stays true to the block. SiR, an R&B prodigy and TDE signee, doesn’t bunker down behind muted, eclectic sound banks. His supple reading is front and center, reveling in tales of love and torment. Stars like labelmate Kendrick Lamar (“Hair Down”), Lil Wayne (“Lucy’s Love”), Jill Scott (“Still Blue”), and Sabrina Claudio (“That’s Why I Love You”) are drawn to his magnetic personality, respectfully vibing with SiR on his level. Chasing Summer passes the bump test, no matter what the season. Stay for the album’s closer “LA,” his potent love letter to the City of Angels.