AOTW: GOLD

As pure as gold.

Cleopatra Zvedzana Nikolic, known as Cleo Sol, surprised her fans in 2023 by dropping two albums within a two-week period. Shortly after the release of Heaven, her fourth studio album, Golden, was released. 
The album seems to prioritize helping the listener find worth in themselves by cultivating self-love, self-care, and putting faith in God. These themes remain quite static throughout the entire listening experience, yet Cleo does a fantastic job of appealing to one’s heart with elegance. 

From the songwriting to the vocal performances, to the semi-jazz instrumentals, to the gospel performances, to the production, Cleo Sol invites us to a space curated for comfort, not being afraid to vocalize her religious influence in a way that can appeal to everyone. 

8/10