Wet's Letter Blue is consistently beautiful, if at times a bit monotonous

Though it is not even a minute long, the first track from the New York City trio’s latest record (“Over and Over”) lays the groundwork for the atmosphere of the album. The song features languid vocals and reverberating synths that transport the listener into the headspace of the musicians, a place that feels both strange and familiar.

This record boasts a fantastic list of contributors, including Buddy Ross, a producer linked to Frank Ocean. The featuring of Blood Orange on the track “Bound” seemed a perfect fit for the aesthetic of this record, as the mood and vocals reminded me of Dev Hynes’s Cupid Deluxe.

I found “Far Cry” to be a highlight of the album; a song both strong and dynamic, inspiring motion and emotion. Without breaking the album’s spell, the song disrupts the echoing ballads with a slightly bouncier tempo. Toro Y Moi produced this track, I was thrilled to disfrankcover (Chaz Bear, like me, hails from South Carolina).

The album offers both comfort and mystery, and demonstrates Wet’s ability to be surreal and concrete within a cohesive work. Each glistening track flows seamlessly into the next. While the album is beautiful and polished, at times I found myself wishing for more excitement, more disruption. Though “Far Cry” and “Only One” break away from the pattern of ballads, I craved a bit more variation in sonic quality.

Despite this, Letter Blue is clearly the work of practiced and considerate creators who have assembled a talented collection of collaborators. The resulting product features impeccable production and honest pathos, while at times becoming a little monotonous. Nonetheless, it will surely be one I return to during contemplative bubble baths or long drives.