If you think the vocal range of your favorite pop artist is impressive, prepare yourself for one of the most powerfully acute albums of 2016. Gallant’s debut album Ology is loosely categorized within R&B, but truthfully picks and chooses from pop’s hook-heavy choruses, alternative’s eclectic instrument sourcing, and trap’s bass-centric subsidy. The Colombia, Maryland product’s core competency however, is his vocal spectrum. His unbounded pitch mirrors the illustrious falsetto of legends like Michael Jackson and Prince while emitting a casual composure of headstrong superstars like Majid Jordan and Justin Timberlake.

Lyrical uncertainty floods the musically confident cocoon that Gallant establishes around Ology, as his anxious self-doubt is vulnerably exposed using ironically robust percussion and a self-assured tone. That front-facing ambivalence shines a spotlight on Gallant’s bold choice to fill Ology almost entirely solo. His sensitivity, however loudly sung, is his alone. The only instance of a featuring artist in “Skipping Stones” however, let’s the audience know that Gallant’s impressionable conscience has a sympathetic counterpart in Jhené Aiko. Mainstream fans take note: this generally self-serving venture has already landed Gallant opening roles on tours with Sufjan Stevens, Zhu, and John Legend.

Favorite Tracks: Skipping Stones, Bone + Tissue, Talking To Myself, Weight In Gold, Bourbon