AudioLust & HigherLove / SG Lewis / January 27, 2023
- Joshua Yoo
- Feb 17, 2023
- 2 min read
While SG Lewis’ debut comfortably existed in its tight scope of ‘70s influences, his second full-length effort, ‘AudioLust & HigherLove’, almost feels like an inverse reaction to the musical constraints of his debut, pushing and playing with the myriad of new genres added to his instrumental arsenal. Across both the darker, lustful bangers and soaring, euphoric lovesongs that cohabitate the album, it’s clear that Lewis is just having so much fun, and it’s hard not to get wrapped up in the fun as well.
The first half of the double album embodies its mood of lust and desire viscerally, wholly and unapologetically derivative of ‘80s pop with all of its synth-heavy, percussive arrangement and cheeky songwriting. It also encapsulates a certain darkness that blends into the background of some of the brighter instrumentals. Especially on lead singles “Infatuation” or the Tove Lo-assisted “Call On Me”, the depth of sound pulls these tracks beneath the sparkling exterior where some of the emotional uncertainty in the songwriting begins to surface.
Side B leans heavily into its theme of euphoric love, where Lewis really hits his stride not only in the melodic songwriting, but also in his vocal performances. Songs like the beaming and celebratory “Lifetime”, or the warm, glowing “Honest” ooze with personality and charisma far more than anything else in his catalogue thus far, and they do a great job of re-framing SG Lewis as a whole artist rather than a mere DJ or producer.
As a holistic experience, ‘AudioLust & HigherLove’ excels most in its ability to build and maintain a groove, no matter the mood, color, or stylistic focus. It’s what SG Lewis has always excelled at since the very beginning, but it continues to thrive and incorporate other growing components of his artistry beautifully.
Highlight(s): Something About Your Love, Honest, Fever Dreamer, Vibe Like This, Lifetime, Call On Me, Holding On, Oh Laura
Lowlight(s): Plain Sailing, Epiphany
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