Album Review: Sincerely

As the chilly embrace of winter settles over Aotearoa, we are gifted a soul-stirring offering from a familiar name in our music scene – Kevin Posey. Though now based in Oklahoma, his artistic roots run deep in New Zealand, where he has carved out a legacy through powerful collaborations and an enduring connection to the local music community.

This 18-track odyssey is a pure release of self-discovery and emotional expression. Posey, known for his work alongside Mazbou Q and Scissorhands on various projects, now steps boldly into his own creative universe, embracing a deeply personal exploration of artistry and identity. Each track invites listeners to immerse themselves in his evolving vision, making for an unforgettable sonic experience.

Love and Go Intro offer the first glimpse into the emotional terrain we’re about to navigate. “Right now I’m healing, heart’s been damaged,” Posey confesses – a raw acknowledgment of pain, but also of triumph in overcoming it. Romance is not just a theme in this album – it’s an evolving story of love, loss, and resilience.

Track two, Just Friends, stands as one of the year’s most standout releases. A masterclass in lyricism and production, it’s a brilliant fusion of sharp, coherent rap and poignant storytelling. Posey lays bare the transience of modern relationships, shaped by selfishness, social media, fear, and doubt. We all seem focused on ourselves – yet remain unable to truly love. “Hard to give anything more right now, my heart is laying on the bathroom floor…” he admits, perfectly capturing the emotional exhaustion so many feel. Take a Walk is another raw expression of this frustration. Confessing to his own effort and flaws in the love game yet having witnessed the abundance of pain that comes with trying. Admitting to being “depressed and still going”. He speaks of survival with chasing success, and the weakness that can come with this.

DND bursts forward with electrifying momentum – a high-energy track that pulses with urgency. The distorted background effects, reminiscent of factory sounds, evoke a mechanical, relentless rhythm, mirroring the grind of the day job. It’s a sonic reimagination of the hustle, where the pursuit of money and ambition is underscored by unwavering stoicism. This track embodies the relentless chase of success with a soundscape that’s both industrial and hypnotic. Posey transforms the mundane into something gripping, a musical encapsulation of the work ethic that drives so many forward. Stranger celebrates the magic of new connections – the energy, the inspiration, and the freedom they bring. Sometimes, a stranger is exactly what we need to move forward without the weight of commitment. Sharp rap delivery and infectious production make this track a standout, proving that even fleeting encounters can spark something lasting. Narcissism x Accountability cuts deep – an unapologetic reflection on insecurity, blame, and the wounds carried within fragile egos. Stripping away the noise, it exposes the raw truth behind human flaws, resonating with anyone who has faced emotional abuse from a narcissistic personality unwilling to take responsibility. Is it a fundamental part of being human? A plea for change? Or simply a reminder that growth is never optional? Posey leaves us with questions as much as answers, demanding introspection through clever lyricism and fearless storytelling.

Jalen’s Last Name explores the sting of betrayal and the irreparable damage caused by deceit. Once trust is broken, the connection fades, leaving behind lasting scars. The accompanying music video, available on YouTube, deepens the story, amplifying the track’s emotional intensity. We’ll Be Just Fine is a shift from this previous track’s expression. A positive track that gives us “moments to smile” and an acceptance of a mental breakthrough. Summer Rain sets the tone for healing through movement – embracing the thrill of moving on, rediscovering joy, and indulging in the highs of pleasure and activity. It captures the push-and-pull of letting go while seeking new energy, making it a vibrant addition to the album’s emotional arc.

GTFO is all about confidence – owning your body, your energy, and your presence without apology. It pulses with self-assurance, celebrating the freedom of expression and the power of embracing oneself fully. A high-vibe anthem! Face Your Demons plunges into the depths of self-confrontation, exploring the interplay between desire, pain, and transformation. It’s an unapologetic dive into shadow work – acknowledging toxicity, reckoning with emotions, and embracing the chaos that comes with deep human connection. The lyrics “bad girl affliction” signals the messy, seductive nature of vulnerability, while Posey’s searing confession – “I lie, I lust, I scream, I cuss” – captures the intensity of spiritual warfare woven into sexual tension. A track that doesn’t shy away, it forces us to face the parts of ourselves we might otherwise avoid.

Multiplicity is a hard-hitting, beat-driven anthem infused with old-school hip-hop energy. Relentless, stoic, and unapologetically real. The production takes an intriguing turn midway, adding layers of grit and unpredictability. The theme is embracing a self-serving, self-mastering drive that fuels his artistry. Insta Snap pulls back the curtain on the dark side of digital validation – where screen time morphs into a tool for manipulation and attention-seeking. It critiques the hollowness of hyping people up online, exposing the toxic cycle of superficial praise and silent destruction. A sharp, unapologetic take on social media culture; this track doesn’t hold back. Don’t Cry 4 304’s is about getting the heart thrashed by people who are essentially ghosts; unavailable and blowing your self-worth. Why bother? I love the percussion elements in this track, mixed with the background cameos. Kane Do It Dirty is a track of staying true to yourself, embracing discomfort, and focusing on your own path without seeking revenge. It’s all about rising above, thriving, and letting success speak louder than payback. Choose 2 Love is a song about seeking real love, and not chasing something not meant for you. Having dinner by yourself, staying away from chasing anything and anyone that doesn’t serve you.

Paper or Plastic signals the start of closure – an introspective track that embraces acceptance and understanding. The pain shifts, but the real focus is on life’s complexities and the thoughts they spark. Then comes Farewell Summer which is an upbeat, catchy closer that ties everything together. Like the passing of a season, it marks the end of a chapter and the beginning of healing – a perfect way to wrap the album.

This is probably one of the most stripped back and unfiltered albums I’ve come across in my years reviewing music. It’s so human, and so relatable. I honestly feel lucky to have been able to hear and absorb Posey’s journey and make something of it. You can tell so much time and effort went into this creation, and the artist should be nothing but proud for his endearing hard work and resilience. It’s a pleasure to celebrate what he’s achieved, as an 18-track album is no joke! A huge shout out to Kevin Posey for this masterpiece. The full album is set to be officially released in June, and I can’t wait to jam it on the likes of Spotify and Apple Music. Stay tuned!