Upon its release in 2020, the withering Dying 4 Your Love seemed slight and dragged in comparison to Snoh Aalegras previous charting single, Whoa. Just over a year later, the ballad slides neatly into place as the penultimate scene in Temporary Highs in the Violet Skies, an album that fulfills the promise Aalegra showed on Feels and Ugh, Those Feels Again. Theres a lustrous moment of self-reassurance when the album transitions at its midpoint from Temporary Highs to Violet Skies, but the set otherwise navigates a turbulent relationship in which long-term contentment and closure are both out of the singers grasp. Even when Aalegra doesnt sing of complications or conflict, theres a sense that shes seizing the moment with certainty or a strong assumption that it will either sour or slip away. And when she delivers a dismissal at the end (But just know that Im good without you), it doesnt seem final. With rare exception, the productions -- including several of high quality from closest associate No I.D. -- are well-matched with Aalegras voice. Much like Aalegras performances, theyre generally low in profile and full of intricacies, increasingly flavorful with each play. Joel Compass billowy soundscape for Tangerine Dream, the Neptunes gentle bounce for In Your Eyes, and Tyler, The Creators swaying and fluttering In the Moment are among the brightest backdrops not crafted by No I.D. and his partners. Aalegra neither exaggerates her grievances nor oversells her evanescent joys for theatrical effect. Its this LP that best showcases her ability to truly sing without raising her voice. ~ Andy Kellman

Rovi