A former professional athlete in the NFL, now turned singer-songwriter, Daud Aur Yahudy has released his EP “Home Bound”, which follows the re-release of his critically acclaimed debut album “Soulful Life Within”. Daud has earned his right to experiment with his sound and release something that tells us who he really is. The eloquently presents his unique version of future soul lined with a touch of love, spirituality and enchantment. His distinct flare allows him to appeal to the masses without becoming a cookie-cutter R&B and soul singer. The silky smooth, 6 song EP features peaceful and melodic vocals that bounce over luxurious beats which move between solo piano accompaniments through to fully fleshed out arrangements. The sounds are deep-toned, the melodic vocals shimmer and the beats stick deep in your bones. The entire piece is fluid and cohesive while showing the diversity Daud Aur Yahudy hoped to express.
Listeners can easily glide from track to track in a sort of thoughtful, blissful mood – smiling, thinking, and head-bobbing. True to its sort-of surprise arrival, the recording feels like a vital step ahead, in a career that’s already featured big statements and a change of direction.
“Home Bound” opts for a smaller set of songs, bringing in unique and original songwriting in order to bring a fresh soundscape to the EP. On the opener Thy Will be Done, Daud’s signature vocal thread plays over piano flourishes. As the track builds we are introduced to the introspective lyrical flair and effervescent vocal twists. It is a solid beginning.
By the time you reach the second track, “Sword Swinging”, you realize the production is great, the feel is sober, the beat is subtle, there are no trash featuring. The sound is crisp and everything is beautifully drowned into emotion-stirring reverb.
There’s a quality to Daud Aur Yahudy’s voice that has long been gone from the genre. The whole thing doesn’t taste like hollow hype and everything feels finally sincere and honest. The concept is solid, and there is not one moment of overproduced mainstream fodder here. Not even on the upbeat “Dance”, with its thumping bass drum and electro punch.
What we’ve got on “I Do” is just another glimpse of the greatness of Daud’s creations. He has the ability to do a lot with little, as he brings a hint of nostalgia in this harmony-rich arrangement. Drums, bass, keys and a clean guitar drive a luscious but mellow backdrop.
The layers of ascending vocals does what it takes to completely mesmerize the listener. The tone and mood stays very consistent throughout the EP, and I applaud Daud Aur Yahudy for never abandoning his goal for this project. Though savory and soothing, the music never fails at capturing excitement and enthusiasm.
Such is the case with “Be Careful” which builds from a quite whisper to a full blooded vocal performance from Daud. His goose bump inducing voice again leading the ways in showcasing his skills in the ‘less is more’ department. There is a specificity to this recording that makes it unique among the genre’s catalog even as the production retreats into his comfort zone.
The title track “Home Bound”, thumps and shakes like it has an actual heartbeat. Built on a rich and dynamic, organic sounding production, the song is full of emotion. Showing more poise and restraint on the verses, the chorus soars, incorporating an expanded vocal range, and more oomph all around.
Listening to the entire “Home Bound” EP, the authenticity and emotion is indisputable. The production nuances plays a gargantuan role in giving off certain vibes, which end up being about as important as the lyrics and the vocals themselves. Ultimately, Daud Aur Yahudy just got better, thanks to a truly compelling EP.
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