Today, rising R&B star Forest Claudette [He/They] releases his hypnotic new single “Mess Around,” a collaboration with hip-hop duo EARTHGANG. Soulful yet otherworldly, the seductive track combines contemporary sounds with flourishes of old-school soul. “Mess Around” is the Australian-American crooner’s first new release since dropping 2022’s acclaimed The Year of February EP.
The slinky, after-hours anthem kicks off with a deep groove. “If I could mess around and see you, I would,” Claudette sings over the woozy, multi-layered production, adding: “But the exit’s on the way and the writing’s on the wall.” The addictive chorus showcases the breakout artist’s full range and boasts a mesmerizing synth flute hook, which lends “Mess Around” a carefree, throwback feel.