SAINT JOSHUA - SELF-EN(TITLED)
Saint Joshua's latest mixtape, Self-(En)titled, arrives with the weight of anticipation and the promise of emotional resonance. The rising pop and R&B artist has already made a name for himself with his ability to blend soulful storytelling with genre-defying production. With this project, he delivers a deeply personal collection of tracks that push boundaries and firmly establish him as a force in modern music.
The nine-track mixtape is a testament to Saint Joshua's versatility, seamlessly merging influences from R&B greats like Usher and Frank Ocean with the timeless artistry of icons such as Stevie Wonder and Amy Winehouse. His collaborators—including Cashybear, Pears Macintyre, Jack Ducker, Geth, Edbl, and Blair Mackichan—help craft a rich tapestry of sound that spans from sleek, contemporary beats to harmony-driven melodies.
Opening with ‘Blah Blah Blah’, a track that instantly hooks listeners with its catchy rhythm and infectious energy, Saint Joshua sets the tone for an introspective yet vibrant journey. His lyrics, layered with wit and vulnerability, draw the listener into the emotional heart of the mixtape. The standout single has already garnered significant attention from platforms like Radio 1 and Apple Music, further cementing its place as an anthem for 2024.
At the core of Self-(En)titled lies Saint Joshua’s ability to balance raw emotion with innovation. Tracks like ‘Do U Ever Call’ and ‘Sweet Talk’ showcase his gift for creating melodies that linger, blending silky vocals with introspective lyrics about longing and connection. The production of these songs feels both polished and organic, allowing Saint Joshua's voice to shine through with a genuine warmth.
‘Nasty’ shifts the tone, diving into a deeper R&B groove with its soulful undertones. Here, the artist explores themes of intimacy and passion with a maturity that echoes the depth of Frank Ocean's ’Channel Orange’. Similarly, ‘Waterfall’ and ‘Blessing’ stand out with their lush vocal arrangements and harmony-rich refrains, reminiscent of classic Stevie Wonder ballads while remaining distinctly modern.
One of the mixtape's boldest moments comes with ‘Next Flight to Paris’. This track veers into vibe-driven territory, blending atmospheric beats with a palpable sense of wanderlust. It encapsulates the mixtape's overarching theme of self-discovery and growth, making it a highlight that listeners will return to again and again.
Saint Joshua’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. With over 14.5 million streams and praise from influential tastemakers such as Complex, Wonderland, and Clash, he has proven himself as a standout artist in the crowded landscape of pop and R&B. The acclaim is well-deserved; Self-(En)titled is a masterclass in emotional authenticity and sonic innovation.
Following a sold-out debut London show and a headline UK tour, Saint Joshua's live performances have become a key element of his artistic identity. His ability to translate the intimacy of his music to the stage was evident during his 2023 performance at BBC Introducing Futuretense and his captivating set at London Fashion Week. Fans across the UK and beyond have been drawn to his magnetic presence, which is set to grace stages in Amsterdam and Paris in early 2025.
One of the most compelling aspects of, Self-(En)titled, is how personal it feels. The mixtape serves as a window into Saint Joshua's journey—both as an artist and as an individual. Themes of love, loss, ambition, and self-reflection are woven throughout the tracks, making the project deeply relatable. Despite its introspective nature, the mixtape never feels heavy-handed or overly indulgent. Instead, it strikes a balance between vulnerability and empowerment, inviting listeners to find their own stories within his.
The production, while intricate, never overshadows the emotional weight of the lyrics. This balance is particularly evident in tracks like ‘Blessing’, where layered harmonies and stripped-back instrumentation allow Saint Joshua’s voice to take center stage. His vocal performance is a standout throughout the mixtape, showcasing his range and emotive power.
As Saint Joshua’s star continues to rise, Self-(En)titled, feels like a defining moment in his career. The mixtape is both a celebration of his artistry and a glimpse into the potential that lies ahead. With its blend of emotional depth and genre-blurring innovation, it positions him as a leader in the next wave of R&B and pop.
Beyond the music, Saint Joshua's connection to his audience sets him apart. His ability to translate deeply personal experiences into universally relatable themes ensures that his music resonates across a wide spectrum of listeners. As he prepares for more tour dates and festival appearances, including his upcoming shows in Amsterdam and Paris, it’s clear that Saint Joshua is poised for even greater success.
Self-(En)titled is a triumph, a mixtape that showcases Saint Joshua’s growth as an artist while staying true to his roots. Each track feels carefully crafted, blending soulful lyrics with innovative production to create an experience that is as intimate as it is expansive. For fans of contemporary R&B and pop, this project is a must-listen—a shining example of how music can be both deeply personal and universally impactful. Saint Joshua is not just a rising star; he is a luminary in the making.
Danielle Holian
★★★★☆