Alternative R&B singer Bren Joy has released his debut album, Sunset Black, via Stem.
On the 12-track offering, Joy showcases his range, not just vocally but artistically, as he dabbles with various genres that have inspired him. He explores everything from R&B and hip-hop to folk and jazz, all while making it a cohesive listen.
“For three years, I chased the perfect sound and business model, only to lose the plot along the way. Creating Sunset Black has healed me in ways I can’t put into words, and I hope it resonates with you as much as it does with me,” says Joy.
He continues, “Sunset Black is an oxymoron—a blend of genres and contradictions. It’s a reflection of my hometown, my culture, and the art that shaped me. To everyone involved in this project, I’m endlessly grateful. This album is one of the most impressive pieces of art I’ve ever heard—biased, but true. In short, this is my love letter to alternative R&B.”
Sunset Black includes the previously shared songs “Never Wanna Let You Go,” “Wandering” and “Couture.”
Regarding the latter track, he explained, “‘Couture’ was created as a celebration of modern aesthetics. I think this sound embodies the generation I derive from, (which is partly why the song came so easy to us) while also exploring new ways to convey sexiness, youthfulness, and sensuality. I respect and adore all things couture, and this song is exactly what I want, narrating the moment I step foot into a 1 of 1 piece.”
Sunset Black is the follow-up to Bren Joy’s 2021 project, Twenties (Deluxe), an expanded version of his 2019 debut EP. The latter projects were released via Human Re Sources/Warner Records.
Joy will support his new album on his headlining Sunset Black Tour, which kicks off March 17 in San Fransisco. He will make stops in Los Angeles, Atlanta, Washington, D.C. and more before concluding April 3 in Chicago.
Stream Bren Joy’s debut album Sunset Black and check out his tour dates below.
Bren Joy’s Sunset Black Tour Dates
Mar 17 – San Francisco, CA @ Brick & Mortar
Mar 18 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Roxy
Mar 25 – Atlanta, GA @ Center Stage – Vinyl
Mar 26 – Nashville, TN @ The Basement East
Mar 28 – Washington, D.C. @ Union Stage
Mar 29 – Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall of Williamsburg
Mar 30 – Cambridge, MA @ The Sinclair
Apr 1 – Toronto, ON @ Velvet Underground
Apr 3 – Chicago, IL @ Lincoln Hall
Get tickets at brenjoy.komi.io.