Dallas-based artist Caleb Ransom is only 17 years old, but he is already making music that suggests he's light-years ahead of his time. His lead single, "Weightless," featuring Midas Well, is a glistening hybrid of Contemporary R&B, Trap, and Pop Rap that's introspective and atmospheric, simultaneously more or less a dream too good to wake up from.
With Mercy and Blake Michael Williams behind the production of "Weightless," it establishes the course for what is shaping up to be a daring, ten-song odyssey from the Texas kid. This debut is an introduction to Caleb's worldview. With a contemplative, emotionally raw performance, Caleb traverses the hazy territory between dreams and reality, fantasy and truth. His voice hovers serenely over a moody, bass-heavy, meditative, and cinematic soundscape, welcoming you to his batting of peace, clarity, and purpose.
Midas Well's contribution is a quiet, grounding counterpoint. His voice is a perfect counterpoint to Caleb's airy belting, supplying the song's narrative with a sense of depth and perspective that doesn't bury them. Together, they examine issues of self-worth, resilience, and romantic entanglement with unexpected maturity and poetic sensitivity. "Weightless" is full of reflection. The words aren't clearly stated, but it is easy to sense the emotion behind them. Caleb's voice is not so much singing as unpacking pain, self-doubt, faith, and freedom. There's an uncanny, tunnel-light moment throughout the track as if you are riding along with him through midnight before dawn.
Beyond being a strong debut, "Weightless" is a mission statement. Caleb Ransom is building a sound that seems timeless and authentic to himself. His artistry has a dimension that makes you feel he's reaching for peace, euphoria, maybe even a cure. If this is the level he's beginning at, the following nine tracks are worth waiting for. "Weightless" is an attitude, a state of mind, and an irresistible calling card from an artist who's only beginning to stretch his wings. Caleb Ransom is not up next but is up already.
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