The wait is over. Eight years after releasing his last album, Bleuphoria, Rahsaan Patterson is back with his seventh album, Heroes & Gods.
The 13-track offering is a hybrid of experimental sounds that highlight Patterson’s well-textured tone and impressive vocals. The R&B veteran explores themes of self-love and spirituality. Patterson opts for no guest appearances and includes his previously released singles “Wonderful Star” and “Sent from Heaven” on his new work.
Heroes & Gods also features Patterson’s interpolation of Luther Vandross‘ “Don’t You Know That” from his Never Too Much album. While he’s “always been resistant” to remake timeless songs by his favorite artist, he felt a connection with The Velvet Voice.
“Luther has always been an inspiration and influence—particularly in his unique approach to singing, songwriting and background vocal arrangements,” said Patterson in a recent interview with Billboard.
He added, “I wanted to pay homage as he could sing a cover and make it absolutely his own. In re-recording this song, I had to find a way to arrange the song musically and vocally—maintaining its integrity while also putting a fresh stamp on it.”
Patterson will hit the road later this month to promote his new album. He will kick off his spot dates in the States on May 24 in Chicago before wrapping up on May 26 at City Winery in Nashville. Patterson will take his live shows overseas to dates in June.
Listen to Rahsaan Patterson’s new album Heroes & Gods below.
