Christopher Brent Wood on his way

Posted Oct. 25, 2022

By Katie Liang

Features Editor

Christopher Brent Wood, an American R&B artist under the alias Brent Faiyaz, released his much-anticipated sophomore album WASTELAND on July 8, and it further proved his potential to become one of the best singers and songwriters of our time.

The Maryland singer and producers Atu and Dpat formed an ensemble called Sonder in 2016, where they started creating raw atmospheric works of art, embodying the modern R&B vibe. Simultaneously, Faiyaz was releasing independent work as well, including his EPs A.M. Paradox, Lost, and other singles that were quick to gain attention and admiration. The word sonder is a common motif in Faiyaz's career; it would become the title of his R&B trio, inspire his solo debut album Sonder Son, and it's tattooed above his eyebrow. 

To make up for his disinterest and lack of success in school, Faiyaz took up what he was really intrigued by: music. Initially, his plan was to be a rapper. Singing proved to be easier for him. He could stretch out words and therefore would not have to write as much as a rapper. Using his middle name and the word Faiyaz that he discovered from his "Muslim homie," Brent Faiyaz was born. He was featured on D.C. rapper GoldLink's Crew with Shy Glizzy where he first experienced commercial success. Crew went platinum five times and was nominated for a Grammy in the Best Rap/Sung Collaboration category. 

Many expected WASTELAND to have toxic undertones as it's a reappearing theme in his discography, but in the introduction VILLAIN'S THEME, Faiyaz considers toxic as temporary euphoria. He approaches the struggles of fatherhood, authenticity of his relationships after fame, and he portrays an antihero character that's unloyal to his future child's mother. His contemporary R&B style shines in this album with 19 tracks showcasing his laudable songwriting ability and undeniable voice. What's distinctive about this album are its fascinating skits. Listening to the intense arguments between him and his baby's mother about his cheating tendencies that eventually drive her to suicide feel like a watching movie and sitting on the edge of your seat full of eagerness. Each track tells a part of the story chronologically. His partner feels abandoned and scolds Faiyaz for deserting her during a time where she needs his support. In ALL MINE, he presents her an illusion of love and charm to keep her loyal to him despite his hypocrisy. His child's mother finally gives up and calls him in SKIT: WAKE UP CALL explaining how neither of them deserve a child. Faiyaz realizes the magnitude of his actions and rushes to prevent her from ending her life. On the way, his distress causes him to die in a car accident. These skits made this a one-of-a-kind album. He collaborates with Jorja Smith, Tyler, the Creator, Alicia Keys, Drake, The Neptunes, Joony, and Tre' Amani to help construct the ominous, sensual masterpiece that is WASTELAND. It rightfully debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums Chart and No. 2 on the Billboard 200.