Kansas City has long been a cradle of authentic R&B talent, with artists like Karrin Allyson and Janelle Monáe emerging from its vibrant scene. LeVelle now proudly takes his place among these distinguished names.His latest album, Love Story, is a smooth continuation of the journey he began with 2022 My Journey Continues and 2023 Promise to Love.
The title track, Love Story, opens the album with soulful, melodic precision. LeVelle’s signature phrasing, where each word is delivered with distinct intent, is evident from the very first line. In a world where love song titles can feel somewhat clichéd, the slick delivery of the production compensates to bring freshness and authenticity.
Out There, the next track, leans into pop appeal with an infectious melody and simple structure that makes it instantly accessible. LeVelle’s intention here is evidently to broaden his market appeal while staying true to his R&B roots—a challenging feat for many of today’s emerging artists.
“Suga” showcases LeVelle’s vocal mastery, as he effortlessly glides between registers and demonstrates impeccable command of falsetto and vibrato, giving the track the dynamic range needed to captivate listeners. His control is flawless, making this song a standout moment of pure vocal prowess.
In Expecting, LeVelle shifts towards introspective storytelling, focusing on the journey of parenthood—a theme more commonly associated with say, Country. Though it may not fully connect with a younger audience, it enriches the album with an authentic human element, a crucial aspect of R&B.
Words shifts into darker, more soul-stirring territory. Its hauntingly beautiful chorus, carried by smooth, velvety vocals, evokes deep emotion. The lingering melody pulls at the heartstrings, hitting all the right notes of a classic R&B gem. In my book, it’s the album’s crown jewel, ticking every box—including the “commercial” one.
Right Here picks up where Words leaves off, pushing the sweet R&B vibes further. Sparse background vocals, pitch-perfect runs, and seamless harmonies make this the quintessential make-out anthem. The vocal crescendos resolve beautifully, creating a perfect balance of light and shade.
Don’t Go to Bed Mad channels the spirit of Marvin Gaye with LeVelle’s fluid phrasing and smooth syncopation, blending effortlessly with the instrumentation. While stylistically different from say, Sexual Healing, the soulful essence is just as palpable.
Work It brings a refreshing, upbeat vibe to the album. A bouncy kick drum drives the groove, and the soaring chorus, punctuated by well-crafted strings and call-and-response background vocals, echoes the feel-good anthems of the late ’90s, giving the track an infectious energy.
Tracks like Suga and Words elevate the album’s narrative, blending LeVelle’s distinct vocal control with rich, textured instrumentals. Meanwhile, songs like Right Here and Don’t Go to Bed Mad tap into classic R&B vibes, proving that LeVelle isn’t afraid to pay homage to the greats while still carving his own path.
With this release, LeVelle has solidified his place among today’s top R&B voices. His ability to connect emotionally with listeners, paired with a keen sense of musicality, positions him as an artist whose influence will only grow. If Love Story is any indication of what’s to come, LeVelle’s future is incredibly bright, and he is poised to be a lasting force in the R&B world for years to come.
