Anybody who knows me knows I’m an R&B lover. Summer Walker’s new album is currently on repeat, Jorja Smith is one of my favourite singers, and SZA tops my Spotify Wrapped list every year. So, when I heard Bryson Tiller dropped a Christmas album on November 19th, I was very excited. Trapsoul is one of my favourite albums of all time, so I wanted to see if he could bring that Christmas cheer I desperately needed.
A Different Christmas is a short album with a run time of 18 minutes. Features from Kiana Ledé, Justin Bieber, Poo Bear, Tayla Parx, and Tiller’s daughter Harley (AKA Halo) bring exceptional talent to this project. “Be Mine This Christmas” opens with dreamy strings that transition into an 808s-heavy beat and lamentations of heartbreak. Tiller always knows how to make a good interlude, and “Cold December Interlude” is no different. “Presents” features Kiana Ledé, who does a great job of singing over the smooth instrumental. Tiller’s cover of “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” which highlights his incredible vocal skills, is one of my favourite songs from the album.
Justin Bieber, Poo Bear, and Tiller work together to create the standout track “Lonely Christmas.” It’s a little ironic that this song is followed by “Ain’t a Lonely Christmas Song,” but I’m not complaining. Tayla Parx’s feature was great, and I’m excited to check out more of her work. And, in case you were missing out on those classic Christmas vibes, Tiller and Harley’s rendition of “Winter Wonderland” closes out the album. It’s the type of song that you listen to in your pyjamas while drinking hot chocolate by the fireplace.
Overall, I think this album is the near-perfect blend of two of my favourite music genres. Tiller sings about love and heartbreak while Christmas-inspired elements put you in the holiday spirit. Although it’s not his best work, Bryson Tiller’s A Different Christmas is still a cute album that’s worth a listen. Even if you decide not to listen to the whole project, do yourself a favour and listen to “Winter Wonderland.” I promise it’s absolutely adorable.
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