Two years ago, Aminé ventured off the beaten track by collaborating with Montreal producer KAYTRANADA on KAYTRAMINÉ, an audacious opus at the confluence of house, dance, hip-hop and R&B. In May, the rapper proved that this venture into uncharted territory was no flash in the pan: the American artist returned to the fray with 13 Months of Sunshine, his most explosive project to date.
From the very first moments of “New Flower!” it’s clear which direction Aminé has chosen for his fifth solo opus. The rhythm is danceable, the bass is warm, and the sun is an integral part of the decor. This summery, festive, groovy feel permeates the 16 tracks on 13 Months of Sunshine.
Scattered throughout the album are several vocal excerpts from her father. Family is one of the central themes; the title itself refers to the Ethiopian calendar, a nod to his father’s origins. Whether on the excellent, introspective track “I Think It’s You,” or “Vacay,” the opus’ key track driven by a lively, upbeat keyboard, Aminé shines with authenticity and vulnerability. We feel that he is genuine and fulfilled, proof that his detours off the classic hip-hop tracks are working for him. Alternating with ease between vocals, rap and spoken passages, he seems to have rediscovered the energy and playfulness of his early days.
Although pleasant to listen to from start to finish, the quality of the tracks varies. “Familiar” and “Arc de Triomphe” are real earworms, while tracks like “13MOS” won’t go down in history. The choruses can seem repetitive, and the lyrics less rich than usual. Once one of its strengths, the songwriting sometimes seems to take a back seat to the ambience and house production.
13 Months of Sunshine is certainly not an album to be studied from top to bottom; rather, this sunny offering from the MC is the perfect ally for the hot days ahead. If that’s what you’re looking for, you’re in for a treat.
