Mario Lopez

With his debut project as the latest addition to the roster of Def Jam Recordings, Harlem rapper Dave East delivers a very carefully crafted body of work that should most certainly enter him into the running for rap album of the year. Entitled Survival, the album is cinematically visual in each of its 20 songs which serve as the personal soundtrack for the young spitter’s life both before and after his emergence into the rap game. Survival offers collaborations with some of the music industry’s most revered artists including his mentor and personal public advocate Nas. But on each track it is East who shines through with much confidence showing clear growth in his artistry. He demonstrates another level of prowess in his songwriting ability, and his bar for bar delivery is as equally strengthened. With this new ensemble lasting a well spent hour and 18 minutes, Dave East proves that he is not only surviving but thriving in this here music business. Listen to him now!

If there were ever any doubts as to whether singer Jacquees was indeed the “King of R&B” as he so boldly alleged, his latest album of the same self-proclaimed title just confirmed them. The assertion itself is an overreach and the 18-track project did nothing to defend it. At best, the 25-year-old crooner is a mere young prince in a genre of music still filled with an abundant list of very well established and talented artists. As for the album, it’s definitely not a stellar body of work nor is it by any means his best effort. While the full-length LP is extensive and does offer some notable guest features, it still lacks memorable feel-good anthems. In fact, the album progresses rather slowly throughout the entire 59 minutes leaving much to be desired but little to satisfy the yearning ear. Hopefully on his next attempt he’ll tone down his bravado and instead tune up the delivery of his songs. Until then, stay humble my friend!