Darion Harris Drops ‘Rapunzel’s Renaissance’

Beyoncé isn’t the only artist with a Renaissance on the way. Rising New York rapper Darion Harris has unleashed his latest project: Rapunzel’s Renaissance. After a string of singles that included “Black Kid” and “Asthma,” Rapunzel’s Renaissance arrives as the latest entry in the young artist’s growing discography.

Darion has always been a versatile artist. His kaleidoscopic sonic profile swiftly moves through trap, dance music, hints of rock, and pockets of soul. Despite the historical reference in the album’s title, it’s a surprisingly personal affair. Darion’s latest project places its bets on exploring the intricacies of lofty aspirations, self-doubt, and love. What colors this exploration, and what makes Rapunzel’s Renaissance so singular, is Darion’s unwavering perspective. He is a young Black man living in a country that despises his very existence, and that knowledge looms over the album — but it doesn’t stifle it. Rapunzel’s Renaissance is resilient.

From the wailing sirens on “Black Kid” to the stabbing synths of “Asthma,” Rapunzel’s Renaissance feels urgent. It’s almost as if Darion is afraid that he won’t have enough time to say everything that he wants to say — and isn’t that the dark reality of it all? The pre-album singles sound just as great in the context of the full record, but it’s the sequencing of the Recess Radio-assisted “Iconic” and “Prayers” that truly impresses. The former finds Darion and Recess Radio plainly stating their goals: “I am not defined by money in my jeans / Imma leave a legacy / Imma be the one to change the fucking scene / Call me Stan Lee.” It’s brash, it’s abrasive, and it’s inspiring. Humility is a fool’s game when you know what you want. Paired against the subtly psychedelic “Prayers,” however, “Iconic” gets a calmer companion. A rumination on fallen heroes and interlocking life pressures, “Prayers” is a somber moment.

At just nine songs and 25 minutes, Rapunzel’s Renaissance is a pithy record. In an era when artists routinely overstuff their tracklists, Darion actually leaves you wanting more. Whether it’s the bouncy trap influences on “Don Juan” or the feverish dance record that is “Mitsubishi Dreams,” every song on Rapunzel’s Renaissance is more interesting than the last. 2022 has been an odd year for music, but Darion Harris is bringing the excitement back to the game.

Rapunzel’s Renaissance is available on all platforms.