Emerging pop and R&B luminary Saint Joshua cements his reputation as a genre-defying innovator with, Self-(En)titled, a nine-track mixtape that radiates authenticity, creativity, and emotional depth. This latest project feels more like an odyssey than a collection of songs, inviting listeners into Joshua’s introspective exploration of selfhood, growth, and connection.
From the opening anthem, “Blah Blah Blah,” Joshua sets a dynamic and relatable tone, delivering playful yet introspective lyrics wrapped in a production that demands attention. Its infectious hooks invite singalongs, but there’s an underlying complexity that rewards repeat listens. This is Joshua’s genius: pairing mainstream appeal with emotional and intellectual substance.
“Do U Ever Call,” a poignant ballad, shines as the mixtape’s emotional centrepiece. Joshua’s vocals glide effortlessly over minimalist instrumentation, giving weight to lyrics that wrestle with longing and vulnerability. Comparisons to Frank Ocean are well-earned here, as Joshua masterfully layers his narrative with raw emotionality and sonic subtlety.
Collaborators like Cashybear, Pears Macintyre, and Blair Mackichan lend their talents to enhance the mixtape’s textured soundscape. Tracks such as “Nasty” dive deep into sultry R&B territory, where lush harmonies and smooth beats create an intimate atmosphere. Meanwhile, “Waterfalls” offers a moment of catharsis, its shimmering instrumentation providing a soaring, almost spiritual release. Then there’s “Next Flight to Paris,” a cinematic, vibe-heavy detour that exudes effortless cool while maintaining the mixtape’s thematic throughline of self-exploration.
Beyond the studio, Saint Joshua’s live performances amplify his artistry. His magnetic stage presence and vocal command were on full display during his sold-out debut in London, and his subsequent UK tour showcased his ability to translate deeply personal music into universal moments of connection. Festival highlights, including a standout performance at Latitude, and his expanding global reach—with an eagerly anticipated European tour—underline his growing status as a global force in contemporary music.
With, Self-(En)titled, Saint Joshua demonstrates that he’s more than an artist—he’s a storyteller, a risk-taker, and a visionary unafraid to push boundaries. Each track serves as a chapter in his ongoing narrative, resonating with themes of heartache, self-discovery, and resilience. This mixtape is not just an achievement but a promise of what’s to come.
In a landscape often dominated by trends, Saint Joshua stands apart as an artist who dares to believe in the power of individuality. With, Self-(En)titled, he invites us to do the same.
