Algorithm

Some two years after the sublime *Candydrip*, Lucky Daye ensures that his third studio album is required listening for R&B fans and lovers everywhere. Despite the seeming coldness of its title, *Algorithm* allures with its series of sensual come-ons and pillow-talk confessions. The carnal delights depicted on “Top” feel downright palpable thanks to the singer’s earnest and eager delivery, a move that proves equally efficient on relatively more abstract cuts like the title track. A standout swirling with circular rhythms and squelchy bass, “Think Different” makes an assertive plea for cuffing in order to break an unfulfilling cycle of one-night stands. You can hear how much he’s enjoying himself on the blues-inflected novelty “Mary,” a steamy entry in the canon of lothario lore. At the same time, he’s also coming to understand the existential terror of being alone, particularly via “That’s You.” On the guest front, Teddy Swims adds his countrified soul-pop seasoning to the vulnerable duet “Blame,” while RAYE nudges Daye closer to commitment on the tender “Paralyzed.”

The prodigious singer reunites with producer D’Mile for a collection of live-band soul and future-R&B that aspires to update the classic seduction jam with a dose of modern vulnerability.

The rise of Lucky Daye has been stunning to witness. It’s important to remember that his official debut single came in 2018 – and since then, we’ve seen