Houston rapper Dro Kenji unveiled his sophomore studio album "Wish You Were Here" in August 2021. Produced entirely by L617 Beats, the 10-track project sees Kenji embracing a melodic style over melancholy, atmospheric productions.
Right from the opening track "Long Time," Kenji's emotionally-driven vocals take centerstage as he sings about overcoming personal struggles. Standouts include "Ride 4 Me" where his crooning is accentuated by emotional guitar loops. "Pain Away" finds solace in a past love over sparse, ambient soundscapes.
A sense of longing and introspection permeates throughout as Kenji addresses topics like heartbreak, self-doubt, and loss. On "By My Side," his singing conveys vulnerability over a lush instrumental. Lyrically, Kenji strives for honesty and depth in his songwriting.
Compared to his earlier works that leaned more into aggressive rap, "Wish You Were Here" showcases Kenji softening his delivery to channel emotive pop and R&B influences. His melodic vulnerability makes for compelling front-to-back listening.
Backed by L617 Beats' cinematic productions, Dro Kenji put on full display his abilities to tap into emotion through raw songwriting and melodic singing. With "Wish You Were Here," Kenji established himself as an artist capable of resonance beyond rap through strength of vulnerability.