Lucy Fitzgerald 
Stephan Folkes arrives with a strong sense of identity on “Hazard”, a debut album that blends emotion, reflection, and confidence into a memorable listening experience. The independent London artist moves across R&B, soul, alt-pop, funk, and experimental sounds with ease, creating a project that sounds personal from beginning to end. Every track has its own character, yet the album remains connected by Stephan’s honest storytelling and expressive vocals. The opener, “What Should You Do (For Your Whole Life)?”, immediately pulls listeners into the album’s reflective mood: Stephan questions purpose, growth, and direction in a way that feels relatable without sounding overly dramatic. “Incomplete” follows with a sharper edge, exploring blame and emotional denial across a stripped-back arrangement that keeps the attention on the message.
One of the highlights comes from “It’s All Within Time (Travelling Through the Stars)”. The track mixes dreamy production with soulful melodies, giving the album a softer, almost meditative moment. Stephan allows the song to breathe naturally, creating a calming atmosphere that fits perfectly within the project. “Can I Be There?” continues the emotional honesty, focusing on loneliness and the search for connection. The vocals carry real emotion here, making the song one of the more intimate moments on the album. “Is This Paradise?” leaves a lasting impression with its touching reflection on loss and healing. Stephan handles the subject carefully, balancing sadness with hope in a way that feels genuine. Later on, “Say It Like You Mean It” shifts the energy to a more direct, confident tone, built around self-respect and clear communication.
The album also explores darker and more mysterious territory. “Somebody Out There?” stands out with its eerie atmosphere and paranormal inspiration, creating a cinematic experience that adds another layer to the record. The closing track, “Hazard,” brings everything together with confidence and self-belief, ending the album on a powerful note about protecting your peace and recognizing your value. Personally, I liked how natural this album sounds. Stephan Folkes never comes across as somebody trying to fit into a certain lane, and that gives the music personality. I also enjoyed how each track reveals a different side of him without losing the emotional connection that ties the album together.
“Hazard” is the kind of debut that introduces an artist with real purpose and vision. Stephan Folkes has already built attention across blogs, playlists, and radio stations, and this album explains why people are connecting with his work. If you enjoy music with honest writing, creative production, and strong vocal performances, this project deserves a spot in your rotation. Make sure to follow Stephan Folkes on streaming platforms and social media, add “Hazard” to your playlists, and keep an eye on his upcoming releases because this feels like the start of something much bigger.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
