Omar Apollo is back after his debut album, “Ivory”, with his latest offering “God Said No,” which is a moody record that captures the feelings of heartbreak and longing. It takes inspiration from late Japanese pianist and producer Ryuichi Sakamoto, and it’s dotted with synths, electronic piano, and his signature soulful falsetto. Although the album feels eclectic, it is anchored in Apollo’s diaristic musings on finite romance.
Apollo’s vulnerability is the main theme of this album, which takes the mood of his heartbreak and turns it into a lush, immersive experience. “Empty” features heart-wrenching strings, and “Life’s Unfair” dwells on paths unfollowed. Meanwhile, “Plane Trees” with Canadian artist and poet Mustafa sounds like a pensive Frank Ocean-esque ballad.
The title of the record is Apollo’s own interpretation of the phrase “lo que sera, sera” (whatever will be, will be), which is most overtly manifested in “Pedro,” a candid monologue from Pedro Pascal. Pascal recalls his heart being “shattered by something” before finding catharsis in a spiritual encounter by a park bench, giving him faith that life progresses and evolves past pain.
The final track, “Glow,” is a fitting finale, with Apollo begging, “Before you leave, give me one more dance,” though he finally lets go. The track ends with a faded anecdote from his mother, which is a poignant ending to an album that sees Apollo tackle insecurity and uncertainty in love and ultimately find comfort in his successes, friends, family, and heritage. “God Said No” was released on June 28, 2024, by Warner
Read the full article on NME here: Read More