Kero One – Early Believers (Plug Label)

Released: 07/04/2009

There is usually a few albums that stand out of the pile of records and end up being the soundtrack of the summer. Albums by Just Jack and Plantlife have previously created the perfect summer vibe for me. This year it will be Kero One. 

“Early believers” creates a joyful spirit of optimism. Hip-hop, jazz and soul perfectly blended together in well balanced arrangements, with strong lyrics sung by great vocalists such as personal favorites Ben Westbeech and Tuomo. 

The soundscape is truely organic – honest, personal stories accompanied by fender rhodes, beats, strings and acoustic guitars that gives the sound a live presence. You get that feel good vibe of an intimate concert for just you and your best friends barbecuing on a blanket in the park. My favorite is “When the sunshine comes” one of many examples of how Kero One captures this atmosphere.

“Early Believers” is the San Fransisco arists second album after “Windmills of the soul” (2005), a release that was successfull first in Japan. And if you are familiar with the new jazz and hip-hop coming from Japan you will easily understand why Kero One struck a chord with that audience. “Windmills of the soul”  gave him the opportunity to work with Talib Kweli and tour with KRS-One and EPMD.

A true DIY artist that have worked ever so hard to get the recognition his music deserves, both albums have been put out on his own Plug Label imprint. He has got his hands on most elements of the process, including vocals, production and instrumentation, art design, promotion, and web design. The DIY attitude and determination is expressed through the lyrics, exemplified in the words of “Keep Pushin” – And most these critics, That’s dissin’ or said I’m trippin’, Thank you for picking me up, I ain’t quitting or giving it up”. 

As Kero proudly proclaims he’s bringing “hiphop with a signature sound” yet  ” not saying I’m breaking ground”. Critics will point to the lack of hidden themes and literary mechanisms – but I think the straight forward, no nonsense storytelling is portrayed with real charm and character. No hard stereotypical hip-hop clichés about women, money and violence. 

Get yourself a copy!

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