New Jersey singer-songwriter Dorian released his 14-song album “RECONNECTED” on August 22. This album, coming after The Collection, incorporates R&B, soul, pop and electronic music into the independent music catalogue that he has been developing since 2019. In the album Dorian once again expresses his yearning to get in touch with someone; in some instances he speaks of a specific relationship, while in other cases the distance referred to is about his position in the world and his own sense of direction.

Dorian develops these ideas at various speeds and with different musical arrangements; in some songs his voice is brought very close to the listener, while in others his melodies have space to move within the dance rhythms and with the more vibrant production.

It is precisely these variations that keep the album interesting and at the same time bring back the same personal concerns. The difference is particularly evident when comparing “WAKE ME” with the title track: “WAKE ME” deals with emotional exhaustion through a taut and heavy sound, whereas “RECONNECTED” expresses the desire to reunite in the style of dance pop. “BAECATION!” provides a lighter and affectionate moment, picturing a time spent apart together. Each of the songs approaches closeness from a different aspect of Dorian’s experience.

Dorian takes care to open and close the record. The “INTRO” starts off by stating that he misses someone, while the “OUTRO” ends with some words addressed to the listener who has stayed with him throughout the album. The 14 tracks as a whole allow room for feelings of anticipation, fatigue and affection before concluding with a straightforward act of communication.