By Ike E.

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FAZE ALONE- FAZE

If Tuface is known as the more notable voice of the Plantashun Boyz, then Faze is the more streamlined side of the boys that you hear in their hooks. His smooth delivery dominates the album.

The album starts off on a more recognizable note. “Miss U” sounds like something that would come from the Plantashun Boyz reunited. It lays down their well-known trademark casual vocal style over smooth contemporary beats.

“Play Games” is one of the stronger tracks on the album, with its playful, over-polished slick, club friendly beats and Faze sounding robust all through the track, effortlessly interweaving Pidgin & English, while maintaining enough control of his delivery (with some help from well-placed synthesized vocals), all combined to produce an ultra hip, urban jam.

Although Faze’s strong side is in the smooth vibe he emits, he takes a risk & tries to expand his own vocal limits. On more exotic tracks like “Na True” and “Faze Alone” Faze takes on a more tropical delivery, even complemented with reggae type beats, and patois chants. At first, it sounds like an attempt to cover the unique ground that Tuface held in the Plantashun Boyz. However, his delivery is tight and he lands on his two feet.

In the middle of the album, Faze’s previously subtle attempt to reproduce Tuface’s flow is seen rather overtly on the track “OK”. “OK” is a quick, jumpy track, obviously geared towards being a popular single. “OK” is almost Faze’s version of Tuface’s hit single, “Rock on”. Both Rock on and Ok have hurried paces, and catchy hooks.

Of course Faze doesn’t have to try and be like Tuface to make notable music. “Trust in me” is an infectious dancehall-tinged club banger, placed too deep in the album.

The other tracks like “Share my Heart” and “Angel Gabriella” are softer serenade-type romantic songs, which show off Faze’s already established vocal skills, but then the rest of the songs feel more like filler material.

For a solo debut, this album has its fair share of good upbeat jams. It is a strong first solo release from the smooth voiced one from the Plantashun Boyz. Even though it shows Faze trying to find a defining niche, his versatile vocals make him worthy of much respect as a solo artist.

Email Ike at kechola@hotmail.com