Experimental R&B artist Ravyn Lenae returns today with the release of her eagerly-awaited debut album Hypnos. The 16-track project features Mereba, Steve Lacy, Smino, and Fousheé. It also includes recent singles like “Xtasy,” “M.I.A.,” and “Where I’m From” to name a few.
The lead single, “Skin Tight,” was released back in February, although the album was officially announced just after the roll-out for the second single, “Hypnotic,” whose music video amassed over 350K views on YouTube. Released on March 20th, “M.I.A.” introduces fans to the singer’s world and her journey of feeling comfortable in her own skin. The KAYTRANADA-produced cut “Xtasy” was revealed a week before the release and the Mereba-assisted song “Where I’m From” just two days ahead of the album.
Meanwhile, production is handled by the likes of Luke Titus, Monte Booker, Phoelix, Sango, Steve Lacy, and more. New, never-heard-before songs like “3D” featuring Smino and “Mercury” featuring Fousheé are notable songs worth checking out. The former sees two Chicago natives reuniting for a song that seamlessly blends Lenae’s vocals with Smino’s signature, smooth bars. Other tracks like “Deep In The World” and “Lullabye” are tracks that will certainly be pleasing for fans who are familiar with the artist and the content of her songs.
Hypnos marks Ravyn Lenae’s first full-length release since 2018’s Crush. The project, executive produced by Steve Lacy, consisted of five songs with tracks like “Sticky” and “4 Leaf Clover” among others.
“When you listen to the music, I hope you have a better understanding of me and even catch a better understanding of yourself… As artists, we make music as a pathway to help other people understand certain aspects of their lives,” Lenae shares about the album. “I’ve gone through the tunnels and seen the light on the other side. I’m finding my way. I’m clearer on who I am and my power through music and lyricism. I’m pouring more into me, friendships, family, and music. Through all of that, I’m fulfilled.”
In support of the album’s release, Ravyn Lenae announced her first-ever headlining North American and EU/UK tour earlier this month, set to kick off during this summer. The run of shows launches on May 26th in Seattle and will see stops in Los Angeles, Atlanta, New York City, Boston, Chicago, London, and Paris among other cities. The tour will feature support from special guest and rapper Unusual Demont along the way at select dates—purchase tickets here.
Listen to Hypnos below.
