Don’t look away, but the house genre template that Aminé has helped shape has now taken the world by storm. The charts are filled with songs that draw from his style, while clubs boom with beats from producers who have clearly borrowed some techniques from his studio. Making his return to solo work after the widespread praise received for his 2023 collaboration with close friend Kaytranada, ‘13 Months Of Sunshine’ delves into his roots to offer a rich, vibrant portrayal of his diverse creativity.
The album presents a sound that is both distinctly defined and impressively expansive, as the producer broadens his artistry more than ever before. Those lush house chords persist regardless of who he collaborates with—whether it’s rising R&B star Leon Thomas or unique Americana artist Waxahatchee, Aminé serves as the cohesive force tying it all together.
An expert in curation, the project showcases a range of standout moments. The opener, ‘New Flower!’, is exceptional, blending Aminé’s production skills with the raw soul of Leon Thomas. ‘Sage Time’ is fittingly aromatic, creating a rich auditory experience that blossoms into something vibrant.
The featured artists bring an entertaining mix, all while adhering to the project’s core principles. There’s little point in collaborating with Waxahatchee’s Katie Crutchfield unless it’s utilized effectively, and their joint effort ‘History’ certainly hits the mark, providing a refreshingly novel take on her vocals.
However, ‘13 Months Of Sunshine’ is ultimately very personal. The title takes inspiration from an old Ethiopian marketing slogan from the 1970s, and elements of Aminé’s heritage are woven throughout the album. A track like ‘Be Easier On Yourself’ resonates with empathy, while ‘Doing The Best I Can’ encourages overcoming self-doubt.
There are also plenty of surprises, with the striking Streets sample on ‘Arc de Triomphe’ standing out—it’s a surprising shift that pays homage to UK garage, adding a fun and emotive energy to the club experience.
Always willing to experiment, ‘13 Months Of Sunshine’ concludes with ‘Images’, a track featuring 454 and Toro y Moi. This versatile artist refuses to confine himself, wrapping up his powerful sonic autobiography with a memorable statement.
8/10
Words: Robin Murray
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Don't look just yet, but the house style that Aminé has helped shape has conquered the globe. The charts are filled with songs that borrow from