Album Review: Kiana Ledé, “Myself” EP

More killer R&B from a rising star who can do no wrong

Kiana Ledé is back with a follow-up to her incredible 2018 debut. “Myself” is her new EP (five new tracks plus current buzzy single “EX”) that gives us more of the same — in the best way possible — and helps to solidify Ledé’s status as a key player in the new class of R&B.

Catchy, moody mid-tempo R&B is her strength, and “Myself” delivers in spades. But it’s also packed with solid bop after bop, giving it a decidedly more upbeat vibe than her previous release. The first half of the EP is certainly more positive, and “Bouncin’” feels like an obvious grab at a radio-friendly single, as it’s the most uptempo and catchy of the five new tracks. Paired with a subtle feature from Offset and a bouncy island beat, “Bouncin’” has Ledé trying her best Rihanna impression, and it works without feeling like too far of a departure for her.

After that, the EP takes a turn back toward somber reflection, which is where Ledé really shines, lyrically and vocally. “If You Hate Me” is a mature take on heartbreak, and “Heavy” is a great showcase for her vocals (though it’s not nearly as powerful of a ballad as “Take It All” from her last LP).

The EP wraps up with “EX,” which only makes sense as she tries to bank on the recent success of the vibey single. All in all, “Myself” is perfectly timed to elevate this already rising star. Check it out and then do yourself a favor and dive into “Selfless,” her debut EP from last year. I’ve had it on repeat since it came out a year ago. And if these EPs are any indication, Ledé’s full-length album, currently in the works, is bound to be a home run.

Grouped together with artists like SZA, Kehlani and H.E.R. (to name a few), it’s hard not to feel like R&B is having a major moment right now. Here’s hoping it can continue that upward trajectory.