I feel that [the term ‘creative’ has] become so trendy and watered down, so I'm trying to become more comfortable just expressing exactly what I do.

 

When Buffalo-born, Harlem-based multi-disciplinarian, Syl expressed his feelings on the one-stop-shop labeling of the world’s artists, we couldn’t wait to hear him perform. And what we heard surpassed his prophetic opinions on over-simplification, exhibiting in the process his wide-ranging, individualistic take on music and writing. His first official offering as a vocalist is titled The World Ends With You, and akin to his artistic self, is much more than a simple delivery from a vocalist.

 

Syl’s voice has been aptly compared to Frank Ocean’s – a compliment only imbedded in a singer’s description when appropriate. But The World Ends With You extends beyond the regal comparison. In a bold and cinematic production decision, his vocals remain steady throughout the track, but appear to fall underneath the rising expression of an emotion-ridden, 80’s-reminiscent series of synth strokes. The result is something like being immersed in a calming dream.

 

The young, educated, and extremely unique Syl has his creativity stamped in a lot of arenas. Self-describing as a vocalist / saxophonist / composer / producer / writer, and with the smooth trance take on R&B of The World Ends With You, we can’t wait to see what’s to come from his young career.