In Fashawn...

Fashawn - " Boy Meets World. " ( One Records )

I'm back after a looong break. Work and life got in the way for a while. One of the things that inspired me to return is a great new Hip Hop album which may be under the radar for a lot of people. It's "Boy Meets World", a collaboration between Fresno, Ca MC Fashawn and one of my favorite current producers, LA's Exile. Like Exile's last collabo "Below The Heavens" with Blu, this album is produced entirely by him and has a cohesive sound which isn't heard much anymore nowadays in the era of multi-producer LPs.

The record touches on a wide array of subject matter with a fresh, conscious yet streetwise approach. Fashawn has an energetic style and doesn't really sound like anyone else, which is always nice considering how many rappers lack originality in 2009. I like the fact that he can be substantive and thoughtful without being preachy. Oh yeah, and he's only 21 years old. Definitely one to watch in 2010 and beyond.

Exile comes with his usual sample-driven style which while definitely similar in some respects (particularly on this album which has many piano/keyboard heavy tracks) maintains an eclectic feel. Also, he still has some of the best drums in the game right now, which is something I look for in a producer. If you get a chance check the album out and support the artists.

Here's a link to "Freedom" one of the standout cuts from the album.

Here's a link to it's Amazon page. The album is worth previewing at the very least. Cop it if you have the dough....