ALBUM REVIEW: Antonio McGaha - The Rebirth Season 2

By Jess Klausing

There are albums you listen to, and then there are albums you feel. Antonio McGaha’s The Rebirth Season 2 firmly belongs in the latter category.

This isn’t just an album—it’s a testimony. A confessional, a meditation, and ultimately, a celebration of transformation. Building on the foundation laid by its 2024 predecessor, The Rebirth Season 1, this second installment brings the artist’s personal evolution to the forefront, guided by themes of heartbreak, reflection, healing, and spiritual renewal. But what makes this project stand out isn’t just its emotional depth—it’s the intentionality behind every lyric, every production choice, and every transition.

“It’s all based on my personal experience,” McGaha shares. “How in the process I was essentially reborn from a spiritual and mental perspective.”

McGaha masterfully blends elements of R&B, soul, and contemporary sounds to create a rich auditory experience. Tracks like “One Day,” featuring Khalid Salaam and Kalin Williams, and “Free,” with contributions from Khalid Salaam, Sickflo, and Kalin Williams, showcase his ability to fuse heartfelt lyrics with dynamic instrumentation—resulting in songs that are both emotionally resonant and musically engaging.

A key strength of The Rebirth Season 2 lies in its cohesion. The album flows effortlessly, thanks in part to the chemistry between McGaha and producers Troy Maddox and Khalid Salaam. Salaam, who also co-wrote much of the album, brings a sensitivity to the production that complements McGaha’s vocal tone and storytelling. The result is a smooth yet textured sound—rich in emotion but never overly dense. Whether it’s the quiet strength of “Radical” or the lyrical honesty of “I’m Sorry,” the sonic palette supports the message without ever overshadowing it.

One of the album’s most unique features is its recurring radio break segments from the fictional station 55.5 Love FM. These are more than just skits—they’re symbolic. Serving not only as transitions between tracks but also as thematic anchors, they reinforce the album's exploration of personal growth and emotional depth.

McGaha explains that 555 is an angel number representing change—and love is at the core of who he is: as an artist, husband, father, educator, and friend.

“The radio breaks were just a creative way to signify the change in the mood and the content of the album.”

Antonio McGaha doesn’t shy away from pain, but he never lets it define him. Instead, he frames hardship as a teacher.

“Mistakes can be made, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the world,” he says—and that’s exactly what this album embodies. The Rebirth Season 2 reminds listeners that even in our darkest moments, there’s room for growth, love, and a new beginning. It doesn’t just tell us this—it shows us, track by track.

Recommended Tracks: “Free,” “Radical,” “One Day,” and “I’m Sorry.”

ALBUM REVIEW: Desmond Parson - Like a November

By Jessica Klausing

Desmond Parson’s Like a November is a smooth nod to classic R&B with a delightful modern twist. The gorgeous album art (created by Artist Seam L Ess) catches the eye with a sharp contrast of fiery reds and cool blue tones which serves as the perfect visual representation of what to expect from Parson’s newest release. This charming album flows beautifully with mellow melodies and warm harmonies to create a wonderful easy listening experience to indulge in.

The opener “Come Through November” is a sultry spoken word jazzy concoction that will warm your soul like sipping a hot cup of coffee on a cool autumn morning. Erika Floyd waxes the poetic of the seasonal changes while Lee Flowers drops a smooth lofi beat in the background. The overall theme of the entire album is summed up with this verse:

“As the leaves of trees change, we change

Concealing ourselves, less transparency

Since more layers are necessary, but in contrast there’s opportunity

To get in closer proximity of one another.”

Next Parson sensually leads us into “Blue Nile,” a groovy R&B track that exudes a sexy persona while maintaining a cool tone that is as hypnotic and alluring as the fragrance itself. When asked about the inspiration behind this song, Parson recalls smelling the cologne in his youth while listening to music. His song is an ode to the fragrance and its cool vibes which he still proudly wears today.

“Let’s Pretend” glows with Parson’s warm vocals that are both comforting and uplifting. With an infectious soulful chorus and smooth love swagger this song gives strong Luther Vandross and Boyz II Men vibes. The trickling piano intro adds grace and eloquence to this beautiful track like autumn leaves falling from the tree.

Continuing on with more heartfelt storytelling is “I’ll Be Around,” in which Parson professes that he’ll “be around when you wake up in the morning.” In “Something Kind Of Sweet,” Parson and Anna Surv croon sweet harmonies about the innocence of falling in love with “you’re what sugar is supposed to be.”

Another standout on the album is the remix to “Possibly.” Parson released “Possibly” on his Resoulation EP in April 2022. The track was a success and a streaming favorite among fans, such as UK DJ personality, DJ Silver Hawk, who suggested to Parson to consider remixing the original. It’s such a fun remix bursting with upbeat drumming and a flute that will have you singing along with Parson, Kojo Snowden and Ashley Watkins asking, “Can I be your cup of tea?”

The album closes with a jazz instrumental reprise of “Come Through November,” featuring Lee Flowers strumming a gentle reflective melody on guitar with a cheerful saxophone wailing in the background.

Like a November is a beautiful demonstration of Desmond Parson’s musical prowess as a solo artist. Parson takes the softer moments within the album and builds on the self reflection through the use of his soulful vocals and instrumentals. Each song is a delicate ear worm from start to finish that leaves listeners feeling cozy. 

Recommended Tracks: “Come Through November,” “Let’s Pretend,” “Something Kind of Sweet,” and “Possibly(Remix).”

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