Trip

Released as a surprise in 2017, Trip is Jhené Aiko's most ambitious work, a 22-track concept album designed to mirror a psychedelic journey through grief following the death of her brother. Sonically, it pushes the boundaries of 'PBR&B' or alternative R&B by incorporating elements of ambient techno, sound healing, and psychedelic pop. The album features a wide array of collaborators, including Big Sean, Brandy, and her own father, Dr. Chill, yet remains intensely personal. Critics noted the album's sprawling length and its commitment to a singular, hazy aesthetic, often comparing it to a cinematic experience. It serves as a bridge between her earlier, more traditional R&B efforts and her later focus on spiritual and therapeutic music. The record solidified her role as a pioneer of the 'mood-first' production style that defined the late 2010s R&B landscape.