Tommy Richman has a knack for disarming listeners with a perfect balance of vulnerability and “it” factor, and lately, it’s reached a breaking point.
There’s very few “new” artists that are able to capture your undivided attention in a way that isn’t forcefully shoved down the throat of your For You page — and Richman is undoubtedly one of them.
Fresh off of opening for Brent Faiyaz‘s “F*ck The World, It’s A Wasteland” Tour — along with earning cosigns from the likes of Drake, Isiah Rashad, and more — the fast-rising DMV native continues to make waves (and lift spirits) on his latest two-pack, SOULCRUSHER (Feb. 7).
Continuing to showcase his unique brand of electro-R&B and alternative-adjacent sounds, Tommy’s music is not only forged through the lens of relatability, but tinged with utter coolness and sonic innovation. While the EP touts two tracks, “WHAT DO U LIKE” and “SOULCRUSHER,” it feels more grandiose and vibrant; Tommy’s strength is in crafting anthemic moments, not just songs.
Ghostly vocal stacks, groovy ‘80s basslines, shimmering synths and pulsating kicks are all doused in Tommy’s classic R&B swagger on SOULCRUSHER. Malleable and boundless, the EP can be played in same vein as a DJ club set and a late night trek to the airport. It truly is its own vibe.
“I don’t know where to run, and I don’t wanna go back home / I really really don’t wanna make amends. That’s fine, I’ll make amends with your mind,” he croons on the hooky “SOULCRUSHER,” as resilience and self-exploration prove to be the main themes of these records.
Acting as a precursor to his official debut album, COYOTE, due out later this year, Richman explained the deeper meaning of the EP in a short statement: “[SOULCRUSHER] explores the idea of the grass being greener on the other side, emphasizing the importance of perspective. Meanwhile, ‘WHAT DO U LIKE’ delves into the frustration of a significant other taking everything for granted.”
As a focus of Faiyaz’s new imprint ISO Supremacy, Richman’s refreshing, one-of-one presence continues to get louder with each passing track. Whether it was standout appearances on Faiyaz’s LARGER THAN LIFE, the woozy “LAST NITE” or house-influenced “THE RUSH” EP late last year, Richman has become a widespread artist to watch for a reason: He wears his talents on his sleeve without a chip on his shoulder.
As COYOTE looms closer, SOULCRUSHER is more evidence of his budding star power and calling as a natural hitmaker. Richman continue to be a breath of fresh air for those gasping for ingenuity and intention. In other words, the future of music lies at the feet of Tommy Richman.
Listen to “SOULCRUSHER” below!