2 things set this album apart from the masses: vocal arrangements & musicianship. The intricately layered vocal arrangements, starting from about 1:30 into “Daykeeper” to the end of the album, recall to mind the work of Leon Ware and Marvin (to my mind at least). Truth be told, Phonte is not that dope of a singer…he’s adequate enough to get his point across without distraction…but he’s no maestro. However the precise arrangements allow his voice to transcend and stir emotions in a way unseen in ‘modern r&b’.

Nicolays musicianship is outstanding on this album too. When’s the last time we’ve heard a track flip from a 4/4 MPC’d headnodder into a 3/4 acoustic waltz and back again (Daykeeper)? Nicolay played and sampled himself playing several instruments which keeps a very natural feel to the work.

Outstanding…and I’m keeping my vote here for album of the year.

…yes I should have posted all this rhetoric on my own site…but I’m lazy and stupid like that

Much love,

JC