Mac Ayres, an R&B artist known for his smooth melodies and introspective storytelling, has consistently blended soul, jazz, and lo-fi influences into his music. With Cloudy, he continues the stripped-back, vocal-centric style that defined his 2023 album Comfortable Enough.
Take Circles, for instance—a minimalist lo-fi track built on a sine keyboard, a steady drum loop, and subtle piano accompaniment. This pared-down arrangement directs all attention to Ayres’ evocative vocals, poignant lyrics, and the song’s dynamic chord changes. The chorus, in particular, exceeds expectations with its breezy, swinging melody that feels effortless.
And then there’s Somebody New, which drifts softly on the delicate tones of a felted piano. The intentionally clear articulation of Ayres’ words gives the track a haunting purity, leaving a profound and enduring impression.
Tracks like Love Somebody, Wrong and She Won’t Stay Long show off Ayres’ mastery of falsetto, gliding seamlessly between registers with effortless precision. I Bet You Calling My Name features another falsetto-driven hook, enriched with a sensuality that captures the essence of classic soul.
The whole album unfolds like a story, with as many as four interludes in between (two of which, placed back-to-back) adding depth to the narrative and enhancing its cohesive flow. One standout, Since You’ve Been Gone I’ve Been Lonely, builds to a breathtaking vocal crescendo that feels both powerful and deeply moving.
Alone, with its wistful melody and more traditional song structure, adds a bittersweet touch of melancholy to the album. While the verse-verse-bridge (VVB) format is less common in today’s mainstream music, it remains a powerful tool for narrative-driven songwriting, and this track serves as a perfect example of that
Similarly, the closing track, Blue Skies, delivers a deeply introspective and somber tune. Driven by an emotionally charged vocal performance, it beautifully conveys a profound sense of longing.
Cloudy is a testament to Mac Ayres’ ability to craft music that feels both personal and universally resonant. With its stripped-back arrangements, heartfelt vocals, and seamless storytelling, the album invites listeners into Ayres’ world of introspection and raw emotion. Each track contributes to a cohesive narrative, blending timeless soul elements with a modern lo-fi touch. It’s a project that not only highlights his growth as an artist but also solidifies his place as a master of understated yet impactful R&B.
