Listening to What It Takes, the new album from Riley Max felt like a moment of grace—a suspended breath of fresh air above the chaos.At just 21 years old, the Colorado-born singer-songwriter artist delivers a work of staggering maturity.
From the opening notes of “Year One” all the way to “gods song”, you are drawn into an exceptional artistic sensibility. The true star here is her voice: soft yet commanding, backed by stunning vocal technique and a visceral pop-folk poetry that grabs you right in the chest.
The production leans into elegant minimalism, leaving full room for her breathtaking vocal arrangements. You’ll find it hard to believe her age given the sheer depth and stylistic range on display. “World Somewhere” infuses the tracklist with warm, soulful tones. “Constants” stands out as a cinematic instrumental piece of unbelievable beauty, driven by sweeping strings. Upbeat, rock-infused moments inject bursts of youthful nostalgia and raw energy. The title track, “What It Takes”, perfectly encapsulates her talent for blending genres, sharp songwriting, and irresistible hooks.
Without spoiling the rest, this album released today feels like a private journal set to music—packed with personal stories, doubts, heartaches, and an unfiltered spontaneity that makes it sound as if she’s singing right beside you in the room.
A brilliant release to ease into your weekend. Give it a spin:
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