Posted on 09/21/2005

 

Kev Brown's new collection of songs brings about a few questions. Can an album be refreshing and nostalgic at the same time? Can an artist create a sound reminiscent of the early 90s, yet remain progressive and new? If so, Kev Brown has mastered that niche with his fantastic debut record, I Do What I Do. After getting his start ghost-producing for DJ Jazzy Jeff, Kev has become a much sought after producer, most notably contributing the beat for "Special" off De La Soul's 2001 release AOI: Bionix, and remixing Jay-Z with The Brown Album.



et Kev Brown is hardly just a beatmaker. Unlike many producer-rappers, Kev's mic skills rival his beatmaking abilities, as his mellow voice naturally compliments the album's production. That's not to say he couldn't use a little help; Kev enlists a slew of guest MC's including Phonte (of Little Brother), Grap Luva, and the criminally underappreciated Cy Young to rhyme on his record. Lyrically the album is more than sufficient, as Kev's raps address a multitude of issues spread over 14 tracks (including two bonus cuts).



owever, it is the production that truly shines on the album. Kev Brown's beats are consistently stellar, carried by warm basslines that recall the sounds of Black Moon, A Tribe Called Quest, and even Pete Rock. "Hennessey pt. 2" is buttery smooth and proves Kev can excel at R&B, while the lead single "Work In Progress" sports a harder edge and might even make it in a club. Conversely, the standout "Albany" is a laid back jam laced with a beautiful horn sample that forcibly sends the listener back to 1992. The songs are expertly linked by brief interludes, including a hilarious "verse" by Phonte's 4-year old son, Dylan, which alone is worth the price of admission.



ike the song "Albany", in which Brown fondly remembers a lost love, I Do What I Do remembers a lost era in music. Kev's album masterfully brings back the best of that jazzy sound, while managing to keep his music fresh and accessible for today's fans.