Review: ‘A Different Christmas’ gets fans ready for heartbreaks, hot chocolate

Bryson Tiller makes comeback with new album

Courtesy+of+RCA.

Courtesy of RCA.

With promises of improving his music after a long break from the industry, singer-songwriter Bryson Tiller released his sixth album on Nov. 19. Going against all criteria that stopped Tiller from creating the Christmas project years ago, the album brings just the right mood for cold nights, bright lights and festive stripes. 

Setting the right tone, “Be Mine This Christmas,” starts off with string instruments transitioning into an upbeat hip-hop flow on the track. Tiller sings about his past love life with an ex and the loneliness that it comes with during wintertime. The song is perfect if you are going through a heartbreak or want to get in your feels while sitting by the Christmas tree. 

Cold December Interlude” gives listeners a chance to hear a calming melody and monotone sound for a short time, feeling like a tiny break. Staticy vocals and unique autotune fit perfectly with the sampled and screwed song “Cold December Nights” by Boyz II Men. Bryson mixes his modern R&B pop style with a soothing version you might find in older music, inspired by singer Ariana Grande and artist Justin Bieber. 

Aside from all of the sorrow, “Ain’t a Lonely Christmas” features artist Tayla Parx, who sings about how she has someone during the cold season and is blessed to have his company. The electro beats in the beginning don’t overpower the song, but blend into its hopeful vibe, giving off energy that makes you want to get in spirit and spend time with your loved ones.

Tiller mentions how his daughter Halo’s passion for music is just as strong as his. Both decided to do a cover of traditional Christmas carol “Winter Wonderland,” while Halo uses her adorable vocals.

Although the majority of the album expresses the feeling of getting your heart broken and makes you reminisce about someone, it definitely deserves the full 5 out of 5. Tiller brings new sounds to his projects and never fails to mold them into each other introducing listeners to something they wouldn’t expect to work together.