By: Fatima Privitt
R&B and neo-soul singer Joyce Machiko Wrice released her sophomore album, MACHIKO, a 14-track project in which each song offers a distinct, authentic, and meaningful sound. Built on rich basslines, crisp hi-hats, neo-soul influences, melodic R&B, and intentional production, the album gives background vocals an ethereal quality while allowing the bass to speak for itself. From the opening track to the final song, Wrice’s MACHIKO is captivating. Featuring SALIMATA, JID, Rio Da Yung Og, Odeal, Mack Keane, Eem Triplin, and Ty Dolla $ign, the album seamlessly blends each collaborator’s voice with Wrice’s, reinforcing its overarching themes of self-confidence, growth, and the hope that comes with coming of age.
Drawing from her Japanese heritage and African American roots, Wrice creates a project that unapologetically explores her identity and her evolving understanding of womanhood and relationships. The opening track, “MACHIKO,” introduces this perspective of gratitude and optimism for what lies ahead. It sets the tone for songs such as “Fly (Someone You Love),” “Dangerous,” “Empathy,” “Crack The Code,” Break Me In,” and “Catch Me If You Can,” which explore the emotional vulnerability of wanting to be with someone without having to beg for their affection.
Other tracks, including “Until Next Time”, “Rio’s Interlude,” “On Time,” “2 AM” lean into a more upbeat sound, while “Down To Earth” and “Crack The Code” showcase a more melodic sensibility. Across these shifts in rhythm, Wrice has a harmonious sound that allows the album to be multidisciplinary and move between R&B, neo-soul, and Afrocentric influences.
The album offers an honest, tender, and uplifting take on nostalgic R&B, using layered melodies and rhythmic textures to create an expansive, deeply resonant listening experience. It is a project that embraces identity, vulnerability, and approaches the uncertainties of womanhood with confidence and hope.