James Reid debuts a new sound in his latest single, “Soda,” which launched on Friday, January 29 on digital platforms.

The song, written and produced by James himself, is perhaps his most upbeat song in recent years – a distinct left turn from the smooth R&B style he’s cultivated in previous tracks, for instance in his 2017 album Palm Dreams.

In “Soda,” we see James inviting listeners to dance – both in the lyrics, and in the music, which leans into funk and a bit of synthpop.

James said at a January 28 press conference that he wrote the song during quarantine, and that it was inspired by what he learned during that time.

“It became a time that I was very introspective and I guess this song is a reflection of that insight, of learning to turn these negative things into positive experiences,” he said.

According to James, the track will be accompanied by a music video, and other content. He also said that he’ll be releasing more music this year, as well as working on an album.

Listen to “Soda” here:

– Rappler.com