Stream: Omar Apollo, ‘Apolonio’

Hanh Truong on October 16th, 2020

0

Omar Apollo kicks off his debut studio album, “Apolonio,” with “I’m Amazing.” And that he is.

Apollo’s new project houses his most eclectic and confident tracks, as he glides on a thin line of smooth R&B in “Want U Around” (feat. Ruel), funk-infused soul in “Stayback” and contemporary Mexican corrido in “Dos Uno Nueve.”

Each number has a distinct sound, making it a coverall record for bedroom jams and songs to get you in your feelings. “Apolonio” features vocals from Kali Uchis and Ruel, and production by Mk.gee, Michael Uzowuru, Albert Hammond Jr. (the Strokes) and DJ Dahi.

“Want U Around” arrived earlier this week as his fourth single. Reminiscent of DVSN and Dijon, Apollo’s silky vocals and affecting lyricism complement his sweet falsettos. Featuring Ruel, their voices are a match made in an achingly beautiful love-song heaven.

“Want U Around is about missing someone who doesn’t feel the same way,” the 23-year-old artist says. “After you try everything and it’s still not enough, you know you should give up on that person, but something holds you back from giving up on the idea of being together one day.”

The project feels personal, as he translates lyrics about young heartbreak, moving on and having stubborn lingering feelings into soulful, suave melodies. And rightfully so, the album, out now via Warner Records, borrows its title from his middle name (Omar Apolonio Velasco).

Apollo will live-stream a performance at Prince’s Paisley Park on Oct. 28. More details here.

||| Watch: The video for “Kamikaze”