Extraordinary

Description

True to its title, Extraordinary, the second album by Gareth Donkin expands the horizon of his virtuosic soul-pop art, not only sonically but also in a deeply personal way. More mature and self-assured, bolstered by his recent collaboration on the new De La Soul album, the London-based singer-songwriter and producer breaks free from past conventions to celebrate the present with his most sophisticated, richest, and brightest work to date. He pays tribute to the great names of disco, R&B, and funk with a playful charisma and a dazzling modernity. He states, "Extraordinary is about taking control of your life, embracing new experiences and adventure." His debut album, Welcome Home, released in 2023, introduced Donkin to the public and was praised by the BBC and Billboard ("a soul genius"), allowing him to participate in the SXSW festival for the first time. However, this season has been marked by setbacks and disappointments. He first turned to the imaginary with the cathartic EP Suite Escape. Then, with a clearer mind, he surrounded himself with a dream team to bring his next vision to life, including ESME, Kiefer, UHMEER, Shaan Ramaprasad, and Howard Lawrence from Disclosure. Donkin has made a name for himself as a one-man band, in the vein of Prince and Stevie Wonder, often seen on social media composing tracks with disarming ease. Like his previous albums, Extraordinary showcases this undeniable talent and charm. What sets this album apart is the extent to which these qualities are expressed. "The sound is broader, more current," he adds. From unifying anthems to liberating statements, Donkin infuses an optimism born from hard work on oneself.