True to its name, "Extraordinary," Gareth Donkins' second album expands the scope of his virtuoso soul-pop songwriting not only acoustically, but also on a deeply personal level. A step wiser and more confident, fresh from a feature on De La Soul's new album, the London-based singer-songwriter and producer leaves past constructs behind to celebrate the present with his most mature, expansive, and impressive work to date, which, with playful charisma and modern flair, draws on disco, R&B, and funk greats. He says, "Extraordinary is about taking charge of your life, embracing new experiences and adventures." Donkins' groundbreaking 2023 debut album, "Welcome Home," garnered critical acclaim from BBC Radio to Billboard ("a soul genius") and brought him to SXSW for the first time. However, the season was marked by setbacks and heartbreak. First, he reached out for fantasy with the cathartic suite Escape EP. Then, with a clear head, he assembled a dream team to bring his next vision to life, including ESME, Kiefer, UHMEER, Shaan Ramaprasad, and Howard Lawrence of Disclosure. Donkin has established himself as an old soul, a one-man band in the tradition of Prince and Stevie Wonder, often seen on social media piecing together songs with astonishing ease. Like his previous work, "Extraordinary" captures this undeniable talent and charm. What sets the album apart is the breadth with which these virtues are displayed. "It just sounds bigger, more current," he adds. From unifying anthems to dramatic declarations, Donkin unfolds a kind of optimism that can only be forged through hard work.