Montreal artist Magi Merlin released her album POWER HOUSE this week, a funky R&B project that arrived amid a crowded release schedule. The record builds on momentum from her earlier single "So Smart," which previewed the album's aesthetic several months back.
POWER HOUSE showcases Merlin's approach to contemporary R&B through what Stereogum describes as "chrome-plated" production. The album offers layered, polished grooves designed for relaxed listening. While the release has been overshadowed by larger drops in the market, the collection rewards attention from listeners seeking intricate funk and R&B textures.
Merlin's work sits within a broader moment in R&B where artists continue experimenting with production surfaces and tonal qualities. Her chrome-plated sensibility suggests a carefully constructed sonic world, one that prioritizes sheen and depth over raw immediacy. The album functions as a cohesive statement rather than a collection of disparate tracks.
For audiences familiar with contemporary Montreal's music scene, Merlin represents the city's continued output of thoughtful R&B practitioners. POWER HOUSE arrives at a time when independent and mid-level releases struggle for visibility against major label campaigns, yet the album's intricate production work and consistent vision make it worth the listener's time investment.