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Photo: Donovan Johnson

The most whimsical pollinators to grace us, hummingbirds exist as a totem symbolizing playfulness, adaptability, and indulgence in the simple pleasures of a beautiful life. It only makes sense then that bLAck pARty would name his latest project after this sonic safe haven, encapsulating their essence at its most poetic.

Since captivating R&B lovers with his dreamy production and signature tropical funk, there's been much anticipation surrounding what bLAck pARty would grace us with next. He seems to appreciate a three-year gap in between his albums, and upon arrival, Hummingbird tells stories of love, in every season of its blooming. 

From its most tempestuous nectar to its rancid decay, this project emits hues of yellow and orange, of slept-in mornings and gentle breeze, of regretted voice notes and lust-stained sheets. “I Love You More Than You Know,” featuring long-time collaborator Childish Gambino, is the fragrance of a gentle love, while “She’s Gone” is the cold afterward. This project is an honest one, yet remains both playful and light.

The impressive lineup of features doesn’t distract from bLAck pARty’s own artistic evolution. While artists like Jean Deaux, Saba, and Gwen Bunn deepen its range, he’s truly the star of Hummingbird. His signature bounce remains threaded throughout the project, but you can hear his maturing not only as a singer-songwriter but as a producer and multi-instrumentalist.

From his visuals to his inflection, bLAck pARty is a walking statement piece. As he bends genres and infuses them with color and texture, there’s nothing of him that isn’t art. Hummingbird is a delicious checkpoint on the journey he has ahead as an artist, as both the flower and the pollinator.

Listenn to Hummingbird below: