Slakah the Beatchild

In the two years since first wowing international fans with a BBE debut that not only showcased his own expansive abilities, but also exposed many to a number of soon-to-be Canadian household names, Slakah the Beatchild has remained a very busy man, ensuring equal shine for his myriad side-projects. Now, with Something Forever, the tireless musician looks to firm up his spot at the hallowed label by offering a brief glimpse of things to come, in the form of a diverse seven-cut solo showing. While the slightly stilted, loop-based compositions bunched together during the early going make for a rather slow build, the disc's latter half, led by the guitar licked soul groove of "Things I Do," sees Slakah in full form. Tactfully varied synth and bass tones, snatching beats and the producer's impressive vocals carry dance-focused tunes "Down" and the "B-Boy Beef" redux, while re-envisioned R&B closer "Illusions" serves as one final example of the admirable breadth of the Beatchild's songcraft.