Teddy Swims, the Atlanta-born vocal powerhouse, has delivered a masterful follow-up to his 2023 debut with I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2), released on January 24, 2025. This album is not just a continuation but a bold evolution, cementing Swims as one of the most compelling voices in modern music. With its genre-blending brilliance and raw emotional depth, it’s no exaggeration to call this the best album of 2025 so far. From the heart-wrenching ballads to the infectious, upbeat anthems, Swims pours his soul into every note, creating a record that resonates with authenticity and vulnerability. The album’s ability to weave personal storytelling with universal themes of love, loss, and healing makes it a standout, and tracks like “Northern Lights” and “It Ain’t Easy” are poised to be contenders for songs of the year.
The album opens with “Not Your Man,” a fiery, blues-infused anti-love song that sets the tone for Swims’ unapologetic honesty. Its pounding rhythm and raw vocal delivery capture the pain of betrayal, with Swims raging against a deceptive partner. The track’s intensity is balanced by its clean production, allowing his voice to take center stage. This opener is a statement of intent: Part 2 is not here to play it safe. Swims’ ability to channel heartbreak into a groove that feels both cathartic and empowering showcases his growth as an artist.
One of the album’s greatest strengths is its genre diversity, seamlessly blending R&B, pop, soul, country, and rock. Tracks like “Your Kind of Crazy” evoke a Silk Sonic-esque soul swoon, with its jazzy waltz swing and soaring melody that recalls Amy Winehouse’s Frank era. The song’s lush piano motifs and Swims’ emotive delivery create a timeless feel, proving his chameleon-like ability to inhabit multiple musical worlds. Meanwhile, “She Got It,” featuring Coco Jones and GloRilla, injects a vibrant, hip-hop-infused energy that shifts the album’s flow. While some critics note its placement disrupts the album’s cohesion, its infectious vibe and empowering lyrics, make it a highlight. These genre shifts, though ambitious, are anchored by Swims’ versatile voice, which never falters.
The emotional core of Part 2 shines brightest in its ballads, particularly “Northern Lights” and “It Ain’t Easy.” “Northern Lights” is a reflective masterpiece, with Swims reminiscing about the fleeting beauty of a failed relationship over delicate piano trills and layered vocals. Its wistful yet hopeful tone captures the bittersweet nature of moving on, making it a strong contender for song of the year. Similarly, “It Ain’t Easy” cruises on a laid-back drumbeat and lightly picked guitar, exploring the unpredictability of love with a vulnerability that feels deeply personal.
The album’s production, led by super-producer Julian Bunetta and contributors like Jeff Gittleman and Mikky Ekko, is more elaborate than Part 1, with sophisticated arrangements that enhance Swims’ vocal prowess. Lyrically, Part 2 reflects Swims’ healing journey, inspired by his personal life, including his relationship with partner Raiche Wright and their upcoming journey into parenthood. “Bad Dreams,” inspired by Wright’s support during his restless nights, is a testament to finding solace in love. Swims has described the album as a more upbeat chapter, closing the door on past heartbreak and embracing a hopeful future.
In a year already brimming with musical releases, I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2) stands out as a triumph of heart, soul, and versatility. Teddy Swims has crafted an album that not only builds on the success of Part 1 but surpasses it, delivering a cohesive yet diverse collection that feels like a journey through his soul. “Northern Lights” and “It Ain’t Easy” are undeniable highlights, their emotional weight and melodic beauty marking them as potential songs of the year. With this release, Swims proves he’s no one-hit wonder, but a career artist whose voice and storytelling will resonate for years to come.
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
