In his most personal album yet, What Do You Believe In?, Rag’n’Bone Man embarks on a search for stability and meaning, balancing nostalgic sounds with heartfelt maturity.
Score: **** Label: Sony Music Release Date: October 18, 2024 Buy: Amazon
In What Do You Believe In?, Rag’n’Bone Man presents a clear desire for stability, as though searching for a safe space to put down his roots. The album title, more than a simple statement, sounds like a self-challenge—a question about the beliefs and priorities that shape his life. Following a fast-paced journey from the underground to the mainstream in just two albums, the artist now seems to seek something deeper and more permanent, anchored by his family and a clearer, more optimistic outlook.
Musically, Rag’n’Bone Man draws inspiration from the Soulquarian spirit—a blend of hip-hop, soul, and jazz that evokes the laid-back, emotional atmosphere of formative summers. This carefully crafted sound creates a backdrop that brings out the singer's true strength, rooted not just in his powerful voice but in the sincerity with which he navigates universal themes. In tracks like “Iron” and opener “The Right Way,” he embraces a vibrant sonic depth, driven by striking basslines that expand the space and enhance the texture of his vocal delivery.
However, the album is not just a sonic journey; it carries an intense emotional weight, reflecting the complexities of his adult life. While Rag’n’Bone Man finds comfort in domestic life, he acknowledges the ongoing challenges. “Hope You Felt Loved At The End” reveals a beauty that borders on heartbreaking, while “Put A Little Hurt On Me” is moving in its almost raw intimacy. These are moments where the artist reveals his vulnerability, exploring the more delicate facets of affection and solitude.
Perhaps more than any previous work, What Do You Believe In? stands as Rag’n’Bone Man’s most cohesive album to date. Rather than dividing itself between the spontaneity of live performances and the technical rigor of the studio, it finds a unique balance that amplifies the power of his performance while maintaining meticulous production quality. “Chokehold,” with its epic feel, pays tribute to the artist’s memorable festival appearances, while “All I Know” is born from the direct, constant dialogue between the singer and his audience, showing how his music is deeply shaped by this exchange.
Embracing the warmth of hip-hop’s golden era and vintage soul, What Do You Believe In? offers a rich sonic experience full of nostalgia and comfort without refraining from challenging its creator. In a journey that ranges from smooth to visceral, Rag’n’Bone Man gifts us with a song cycle that reveals his deepest truths, crafting a work that not only echoes his journey but also expands his boundaries as an artist.
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