Singer-songwriter Mateo released his new debut EP entitled Love & Stadiums II. It’s the follow-up to his Love & Stadiums mixtape, which was released earlier this year.
The Krucial Noise artist takes his fans on a journey of love, the ups and downs in the seven-track EP. Mateo showcases his talent as both a singer and songwriter on this album.
The EP begins with Mateo’s debut single, “Say It’s So,” produced by Swizz Beatz, and background vocals by Alicia Keys. Mateo reflects on a past breakup, hoping that his ex felt as hurt as he did.
Mateo shows his sensitive side in the heartfelt track “Love Is A Gun.” In the song, Mateo croons about his vulnerable heart: “Your love is a gun, ready to fire away / And I’m a target, but I bruise so easily.”
“Don’t Shoot Me Down” is a satisfying follow-up to the previous track. The R&B and hip-hop-infused track opens with a heartfelt rhyme from Ab Liva. Goapele‘s soft vocals enhance the track, especially in the hook and verse, where she sings, “Please don’t shoot me down, ’cause I’m flyin’.”
“Doubt” is another exceptional song on the EP. Here, Mateo showcases his falsetto skills that are reminiscent of Robin Thicke‘s and Maxwell‘s hair-raising vocals.
In “Fool For You,” Mateo sings about how much he loves his partner. “I’m a fool for you / I’ll chase the stars, run a million years to get where you are,” he sings There are parts of the song where Mateo sounds reminiscent of Musiq Soulchild.
The heartfelt track “In Your Arms Tonight” is the EP’s centerpiece, with the lyrics alone. “I just died in your arms tonight, it must’ve been something you said,” he sings.
Mateo concludes the EP with a dance remix to “Get To Know Me.” The original version can be heard on the Love & Stadiums mixtape.
Love & Stadiums II is a promising debut for Mateo, showcasing his talents as a singer and songwriter. He stays committed to his unique sound rather than conforming to trends, clearly pouring his heart into this project. With his undeniable talent, here’s hoping more people will get hip to him.
Standout Tracks: “Say It’s So,” “Don’t Shoot Me,” “In Your Arms Tonight”
