CD REVIEW: ERIK HASSLE – Somebody’s Party

Label: RCA Records

Release Date: March 4, 2014

Rating: 8.5/10

Reviewed by: Todd “Toddstar” Jolicoeur

What happens when you take a little Lenny Kravitz, a little Prince, a low-tempo groove and mix them up?  You basically get the new EP from Erik Hassle.  “Pathetic” kicks the disc off with a groove that become downright sexy once Hassle’s vocals are thrown on top of the track.  The song is uptempo compared to others and is a solid lead track to get people listening.  “Talk About It” slows the tempo and sets the tone for the next few tracks on the disc.  This track features Vic Mensa on a rap at the bridge of the track.  “Ready For You” keeps the tempo at a minimum, but the underlying beat is energetic and gives the song depth.  “What Is He Like” gets a little uptempo at the chorus, but stays the course as set forth on previous tracks.  The emotion in the vocals set against the lyrics truly establish as a ‘done me wrong’ song.  Tinashe is featured on “Innocence Lost” and adds to the mix.  This song has a familiar groove and pace as the previous tracks, but the vocals are more ambitious than on the last couple tracks.  The addition of a female vocal sets the song apart from the others and gives the disc an added push.  Title track “Somebody’s Party” doesn’t feel like a party, but is a great way to close this disc.  The vocals seem to pop and the beats are lively.  As this party comes to a close, I find myself pushing play one more time…

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Category: CD Reviews