Gemini Rights by Steve Lacy | Album Review
A sophomore effort full of breezy production, and emotional introspection
At the young age of 24, Steve Lacy has slowly been climbing up the ladder as he showcases more elements of his DIY style of talent. From his early start working alongside bands like The Internet to producing for some of hip hop’s biggest names like Kendrick Lamar and Mac Miller (all before he finished high school). His knack for psychedelic, lo-fi production topped by his guitar-playing skills makes him stand out among his fellow soul artists.
On his sophomore project Gemini Rights, Lacy hones in on telling a deep story by inviting listeners into his headspace following a lost love. Partnered with cues and tinges from 70’s funk and Lacy’s airy voice throughout the album, Gemini Rights makes for a languid listen that will have you feeling all types of ways.
Production-wise, this new album is almost the same affair as Lacy’s previous projects like Apollo XXI. So expect to hear a lot of his signature, twanging guitar strums and an overall breezy vibe for the duration of the entire album. Gemini Rights sounds much more polished compared to his past work and feels more accessible to new listeners in my opinion. Cuts such as the Bossa Nova-Esque “Mercury” and the springy “Bad Habit” are just a few examples of Gemini Rights' stronger emphasis on catchy melodies.
Vocally, Steve Lacy soars on this album. He’s been compared to the likes of Stevie Wonder and Prince before, but here it’s more apparent. The way he harmonizes towards the end of “Static” or his falsetto on “Cody Freestyle” feels like moments of pure ecstasy. Lacy isn’t the only vocal contribution to Gemini Rights. songstress Fousheé comes through on “Sunshine”, singing from the perspective of one of Steve’s ex-partners. Former The Internet collaborator Matt Martians makes a brief appearance in the interlude “2gether” as well.
Lyrically, however, is where I think the album really flourishes. Lacy could’ve gotten away with lazily written verses and just let his production do the talking but an artist as eccentric as him wouldn’t let that happen. Conceptually Gemini Rights follows Lacy experiencing the ups and downs of breaking up with a boyfriend. Starting with moments of spitefulness in the opener “Static”. Lines like: (“Lookin’ for a bitch ’cause I’m over boys”) embrace his quick fullness to fill this void by tapping into his bisexuality.
Lacy starts to explore more of his conflicting feelings in songs like “Helmet” and “Bad Habit”. While he’s stuck in a tug-o-war of emotions on the former track, he begins to overthink the “what-if” moments on the latter track. These confusing feelings take center stage in the chorus on “Mercury” (“Little of heaven, little unpleasant? I don’t know.”). As the album comes to an end, we briefly see Lacy begin to move on.
“Cody Freestyle” kicks this stage off with Lacy acknowledging he won’t settle for less when it comes to a serious relationship but is still open to casual sex with his ex. Right when we think Lacy is officially done with them on “Amber”, a small encounter with them conjures up all these conflicting feelings again on “Sunshine”. Fousheé attempts to reassure Lacy in the chorus that maybe things could work out:(“But I’m always gonna be where you are, where you are.”). The closer “Give You The World” sees Lacy beg for forgiveness, to yearn for a second chance. The album ends with it being unclear whether or not Lacy makes it work out, or if he ends up getting hurt again.
Overall Gemini Rights is everything you could want from a Steve Lacy album. The production here feels more melodic and catchier this time around. The vocal performances are stellar, and the album’s themes and lyricism might be some of Lacy’s best-written material. I’m feeling a high 8–9/10 on Gemini Rights. Perhaps it’s because this album dropped at a time where it resonates with me on an emotional level, but I’d be lying if I said this wasn’t an enjoyable experience. I feel like this album will open up even more possibilities for Lacy to expand his artistry, from his production, lyrics and so much more.
Favourite Tracks: Static, Helmet, Mercury, Bad Habit, Sunshine, Give You the World
Listen to Gemini Rights: Apple Music| Spotify
