BY: JESSE ZAPATERO

Bakar skillfully blends indie rock with hip hop, jazz, and soul, creating a unique project.

Bakar's sophomore album, "Halo," shows the worlds a transition in his style. While the album retains Bakar's signature vivid storytelling and charm, it falls slightly short of making a significant leap forward.

Discovering Bakar early in his career through his debut mixtape, "Badkid," provided a glimpse into his wholesome and nostalgic vibe. The mixtape, released in 2018, left a lasting impact.

Despite a hit-and-miss feeling towards "Halo," it is evident that Bakar has taken steps in the right direction. Teaser tracks like "To Open My Heart" stand out, contributing to the album's overall development.

The 34-minute album, featuring 11 songs, includes a newly recorded version of Bakar's 2018 hit, "Hell N Back," with Summer Walker. This collaboration adds a conversational tone, exploring themes of love and optimism in a refreshing manner.

The album's standout moments include "Alive!," a perky follow-up to the previous year's "The Mission." Bakar's storytelling strength is evident in tracks like "Facts_Situations," where he skillfully portrays the feeling of betrayal.

"Halo" delves into themes of young love, self-love, and escapism, with references to drugs adding continuity to Bakar's storytelling across albums. The diversity of emotions explored in each song, coupled with Bakar's adept lyricism, creates a compelling narrative.

Bakar's growth as an artist is evident in the controlled and focused effort of "Halo." The album navigates various genres, from the pulsating opening track "One In One Out" to the emotionally charged "Hate The Sun." The evolution of Bakar's voice, placed prominently in the mix, enhances the listening experience. it reaches its peak with tracks like "Hate The Sun" and the reflective "Sofa." These moments showcase Bakar's vulnerability and establish him as one of the most distinct personalities in UK pop.

Bakar's "Halo" is more than an album; it's an enchanting soundtrack that resonates with laidback romantics, indie enthusiasts, and devoted alt-pop aficionados. The fusion of genres, DIY charm, and Bakar's distinctive vocal style make "Halo" a memorable and enjoyable project.