Following two stellar singles, Leon Bridges returns with “Beyond,” the third advance single from his highly-anticipated sophomore album, ‘Good Thing.’

Contemporary soul singer Leon Bridges returns with his highly-anticipated sophomore album, Good Thing on May 4, 2018.  Bridges came back strong with two promo singles – “Bet Ain’t Worth the Hand” and “Bad Bad News”. Returning with a third advance single, “Beyond,” does Bridges keep a ‘good thing’ going?

“Beyond,” like “Bet Ain’t Worth the Hand” and “Bad Bad News” has some great things that bode well in its favor.  While it should go without saying from a soul singer, the record is chocked-full of soul. The throwback vibes are part of the allure and overall appeal of Leon Bridges – he acknowledges and remembers soul music in its glory age.  That continues on “Beyond.” Furthermore, vocally, Bridges continues to show off a terrific, nuance set of pipes.  Another pro – the subject matter.  Bridge believes he may have found legitimate, true love, which is both scary and a blessing. All of the aforementioned make “Beyond” notable.

There are a few cons regarding “Beyond.”   “Beyond” doesn’t quite have the same ‘oomph’ for whatever reason compared to the first two promo singles from Good Thing.  It’s not a lack of effort or soulfulness, it just feels like the record needs that ‘extra special something else.’  The sentimentalism of the lyrics is a selling point, but perhaps there’s a hint of schmaltziness in the equation as well.  It’s nitpicking ultimately – for the most part, Leon Bridges holds it down.

Final Thoughts

“Beyond” ultimately gives Leon Bridges another pleasant, respectable single in advance of Good Thing.  It’s not as accomplished as the two singles that precede it, even if the heart and soul are still firmly in place.  Nonetheless, “Beyond” still builds up the excitement for a truly Good Thing.

Leon Bridges • Good Thing • Columbia • Release: 5.4.18

Photo Credit: Columbia