Malek

Although the term wunderkind gets thrown around a lot these days, there is no better example of this than the up and coming California-based producer Malek. The guy is definitely not a one trick pony; after becomming one of the four finalists in the One Stop Producer's Conference in 2009 and winning the producer showcase at the ASCAP I Create Music Expo back in April, he shows no signs of slowing down.

While Malek's first album, Life in 3D, aimed to provide a distinct club-rap and R&B sound, the sophomore project takes a much more lighter and cinematic approach, fusing and focusing on elements of hip hop, pop, and atmospheric 8-bit jams that result in a wholesome listening experience. Following the chilling piano-laced introduction, we get the feel good title track, which oozes elegance. "Back to the Basics," the third tune on the project, features some very vivid instrumentals coupled with the first of a few tracks that Malek sings over, while the aptly titled "Good vs. Evil" carries out a superb juxtaposition between the airy and cheerful part of the first section of the song and the moody turn it takes towards the end.

Probably the standout track on the project, "Anymore (Find Your Love)" is a catchy late night, dripped-in-funk jam that'll have you dancing in your seat. All in all, the album was one that I wasn't expecting to love so much, but the eclectic sounds kept me coming back.