Honeysuckle

Released in 2015, Honeysuckle represents a pivotal moment in Princess Nokia's (Destiny Frasqueri) discography, showcasing her versatility as a vocalist and curator of mood. Moving away from the electronic-heavy sounds of Metallic Butterfly and the hard-hitting rap of her later work, this album is a dedicated exploration of neo-soul, jazz, and 1970s-inspired R&B. The project was released under the name Princess Nokia but often feels like a bridge from her earlier 'Viceroy' era, characterized by a love for vintage aesthetics and organic instrumentation. Critically, it is seen as a 'hidden gem' in her catalog, proving her ability to master the 'low-and-slow' groove of downtempo soul. The production is notable for its use of live-sounding percussion and warm, tape-saturated textures that give the record a timeless feel. It stands as a testament to her identity as a multifaceted artist who refuses to be boxed into a single genre, prioritizing emotional resonance and atmospheric consistency over commercial trends.