Jay Deru has shared a new album, titled Skyscrapers. For Deru, music has always been closely tied to writing. He started with poetry as a child, discovered choir a few years later, and eventually found rap in high school. After graduation, he took that interest into professional studios and spent years performing at open mics and developing his sound in front of live audiences.
That experience comes together on Skyscrapers, his latest album. The project feels confident without being overly polished, pairing soulful production with relaxed grooves and lyrics that give Deru room to show both personality and range.
A major part of the album’s appeal is how naturally Deru moves between rapping and melody. His voice has a distinct character, while his flow stays loose and controlled. Nothing feels forced. Even when the production becomes heavier, he maintains the same sense of ease that runs through the rest of the record.
The album establishes that balance right away with “Cashout humor.” Warm strings, light percussion and deep bass create a smooth backdrop for Deru’s poetic delivery. It is understated but memorable, setting up the laid-back atmosphere that shapes much of the project.
Elsewhere, Skyscrapers opens itself up to different moods. “Sunbathe” leans into brighter melodies and spacious keys, giving Deru a chance to move between singing and rap. “Heavy Tinted Civic,” featuring Dontay Jacob, takes a harder approach, with gritty instrumentation and heavier bass pushing the energy forward. The contrast keeps the album moving without making it feel disconnected.
By the time “Hurt Nobody” closes the project, the focus shifts toward something more personal. The production remains spacious, built around fluid bass and airy keyboards, while Deru’s writing takes on a more reflective quality. It is an effective ending because it leaves the listener with the person behind the music rather than simply another strong beat.
What makes Skyscrapers work is its sense of restraint. Deru does not seem interested in overwhelming the listener with production or trying to prove his versatility at every turn. Instead, he lets the songs breathe and trusts his voice, writing and delivery to carry them.
That confidence feels earned. The poet, singer and rapper that emerged at different points in Deru’s life now exist comfortably within the same artist. Years of writing, recording and performing have given him the freedom to move between those sides of himself without losing his identity.
Skyscrapers ultimately sounds like an artist settling into his own lane. It is soulful, thoughtful and easy to live with, but there is enough weight beneath the surface to keep the album from feeling predictable. For Jay Deru, it marks another step forward—and a clear indication that he is becoming increasingly comfortable sounding exactly like himself.
Listen to Jay Deru’s new album Skyscrapers here:
