Rapper and singer Aminé brings listeners a delightfully creative third album with 13 Months of Sunshine. With singles “Familiar,” “Arc de Triomphe” and “Vacay,” the project follows his 2021 mixtape “TWOPOINTFIVE” and 2023 collaborative album “KAYTRAMINÉ” with KAYTRANADA.
The album combines R&B, dance pop and Ethiopian cultural influences. Its audience can consistently find joy in the smooth, funky sound Aminé fosters throughout the 48 minutes of listening time. Moreover, the addition of recorded conversations with Aminé’s father injects audible soul into the experience. It is clear that 13 Months of Sunshine is not only a piece of work for its creator; rather, it is a labor of love.
The album takes its title from the slogan of Western tourism advertisements for Ethiopia and the 13-month Gregorian calendar used in Ethiopia and Eritrea, according to a press release. The amount of effort put into the title went into every decision made on the album.
Aminé doesn’t take himself too seriously, but he also isn’t careless. Every decision was made intentionally and consciously to create an atmosphere where the listener’s cares can float away into a psychedelic stream of gentle beats and chill melodies.
“They came up with this slogan to show people that there was so much more to Ethiopia than what is advertised. I related so heavily to it, because on this album, I am showing that there’s so much more than what everyone assumes about my music—myself included.”
Despite a steady sound, the album resists becoming monotonous. Each song is able to use what could be very similar bases and takes them in wildly different directions. For example, “Sage Time” and “Familiar” could have been frustratingly similar, but they instead build off each other to create cohesive yet distinct tracks. Moreover, Aminé achieves a robust balance of energy and slowness that deepens the entire LP. Even off the opener “New Flower!” there is a dynamism that is hard to overlook. Often at lively tempos, Aminé knows exactly how to get his audience to feel like dancing.
It’s in the moments of bliss that the album extends its warmth and joy. Simultaneously, however, it doesn’t ask listeners to forget their troubles. Despite the titular sunshine, the lyrics of the project are far from bright. With songs like “History (feat. Waxahatchee)” and “Doing The Best I Can,” Aminé slows down to consider lost relationships and generational struggles. Even on the upbeat tracks, he creates space to explore negative feelings.
The content of the album is where one problem arises. There is a tendency to lean into sex to carry the lyrics. While it is perfectly respectable to sing about such a topic, the constant references can diminish the multifaceted nature of the LP. It’s unnecessary to reuse that one motif so regularly, and even sex-positive listeners could find it somewhat irritating.
Nonetheless, Aminé maintains a fresh tone around every turn of the album. The electric hum and silky bass perfectly complement his soft voice, allowing enough room for experimentation and surprises. “13MOS” is an excellent example of all that makes the album amazing, incorporating a recording of his father’s voice into standout wordplay in his rap, evident Ethiopian influence and a unique instrumental style.
Those searching for the perfect summer music need look no further than 13 Months of Sunshine. It’s a heartfelt tribute to culture, family and self that can leave anyone satisfied. Even at its weakest moments, it provides an irreverent escape. At its best, it meets brutal reality with sunny pleasure. With its sexy, vibrant, and fun energy—everything today’s music often lacks—this album effortlessly pulls in anyone lucky enough to find it.
