Pointy Heights is the third album by Fousheé, released on September 13, 2024. This album features collaborations with notable producers like Steve Lacy, Carter Lee, and Solomonophonic. Fousheé and Lacy had previously collaborated on the track “Sunshine” from Lacy’s studio album Gemini Rights. Her career has skyrocketed thanks to collaborations with artists such as Childish Gambino, Teezo Touchdown, Lil Yachty, and Vince Staples, and is celebrated for her remarkable ability to intertwine her captivating vocals through a variety of genres, effortlessly transitioning from punk rock to pop while delving into themes of romanticism.
A New Jersey native, Fousheé made a significant mark on The Voice as a blind audition contestant with her cover of “Redbone” by Childish Gambino—an inspiring moment that showcases the interconnectedness of her musical journey. Over the years, she has fully embraced her diverse artistry, creating a sound that is both refreshing and deeply resonant. Her music is a beautiful blend of punk rock, soul, R&B, and pop, enriched by her Jamaican heritage, which shines through in her music video for “Feel Like Home.”
The album cover, photographed by Brandon Bowen, vividly encapsulates her punk aesthetic while showcasing the opposition of her fierce visual style and sweet sound. Bowen is known for collaborating with hardcore artists like Playboi Carti and Marilyn Manson. For this album, Fousheé drew inspiration from Malian photographer Malick Sidibe, whose contemporary art reflects the beauty of youth culture through bold checkered floor designs. On Instagram, she shared that this dynamic pattern symbolizes local youth aspiring to “look like the rock and roll idols and movie stars they wanted to be.”
Pointy Heights reflects a heartfelt homage to the love and compassion woven into her Jamaican heritage. On Instagram, Fousheé explained that the album’s title honors her grandfather, nicknamed “Pointy” because “he was pint-sized,” and who also discovered the town Pointy Heights. Throughout the album, she beautifully captures the essence of intimacy and passion, boldly embracing her love for romanticizing life in all its forms.
The album opens with a unique blend of reggae in her song “birds, bees,” a nod to her Jamaican roots. Reggae, which originated in Jamaica in the late 1960s, features the prominent use of drums, bass guitar, and electric guitar. The album showcases a distinctive mix of flute improvisation, drums, and various guitars, creating a soothing groove that allows her love-filled lyrics to shine. The flute adds a soulful resonance that evokes the feeling of bare feet on grass, while her guitar work conveys an emotional warmth that feels like a soothing embrace.
A standout track for me is “Feel Like Home,” where Fousheé expresses her longing for romance as a source of fulfillment. I resonate deeply with her portrayal of love’s power, especially in the line, “I’m grasping onto the only thing that feels like something, anything.” Her ability to evoke warmth through lyrics and melodies creates an immersive listening experience.
While the album shines with impressive tracks, “Loversland” unfortunately feels rushed, missing the lyrical depth it deserves. Additionally, the production feels a bit flat, lacking the punch needed to bring the track to life. I believe a different melodic arrangement could have elevated it to new heights, allowing it to resonate more deeply with listeners.
Ultimately, Pointy Heights delicately navigates themes of love and vulnerability, wrapping listeners in a comforting embrace. As we enter this year’s Libra season, the album’s gentle warmth, carrying some Pisces undertones, feels like the perfect soundtrack for the cold days ahead. Whether you’re seeking a warm hug or simply the feeling of sunlight on your skin, this album delivers. This work of art is perfect for walking or biking along University Parkway near the trees—if that makes sense!
