Review
Daniel Caesar’s third studio album, "NEVER ENOUGH," released on April 7, 2023, is a delightful journey through the rich tapestry of contemporary R&B, seasoned with intriguing hints of folk and country influences. This album showcases Caesar’s evolution, as he bravely steps away from his traditional R&B roots, embracing a broader palette of sounds that underline his versatility and maturation as an artist.
The soulful production, largely championed by Caesar himself alongside other talented producers, envelops listeners in a warm, intimate soundscape. Through the lyrics, Caesar delves deeply into themes such as time, human error, and personal growth, embodying a profoundly introspective and experimental spirit. Critics have lauded the album for its cohesive and daring genre experimentation; Exclaim’s Ben Okazawa praised it for cementing Caesar’s place in the ever-evolving R&B realm. AllMusic’s Andy Kellman found it “open, messy, and fascinating,” while Grace Dodd of Clash heralded it as a “warm, intimate masterclass in contemporary R&B.” The critical acclaim culminated in its shortlisting for the 2023 Polaris Music Prize and a Juno Award for Contemporary R&B/Soul Recording of the Year in 2024, solidifying "NEVER ENOUGH" as a monumental chapter in Daniel Caesar's illustrious career. - Kimberly