Dedication to Family and Fatherhood| Posted June 07, 2017
Beleaf is back with his latest and final album. His Beleaf in Fatherhood videos on YouTube have taken off, and he has gained quite a following. The constant touring to support his albums has weighed on him, and he desires to be the best husband and father that he can be by stepping back to focus on his family. The album In Fatherhood showcases a different Beleaf than the one we saw on the darker (but amazing) album Black Sugar, Red Pills.
This body of work was not an easy feat; it took patience and care. Beleaf worked with producers (and frequent collaborators) Anthony Cruz, Erik Kingsley, DSTL and JRuckers. The result was songs like "Activate," which includes the dreamy chords and syncopated drum patterns courtesy of Erik Kingsley and Santhosh. The song shows that it's the progression of pain and trials that allowed Beleaf's faith and strength to be jumpstarted.
Kingsley's chords stay chill and subtle against the banging beat on "Lightweight." His flow comes with rapid fire as he presents this autobiographical look at a day at his house with his kids. Andy Mineo's feature on the album is not highly marketed or mentioned on promos, but he jumped on "Ain't This Life is Perfect" and killed it. Before Mineo spits his 16, Beleaf spits about feeling content with where God has him and the joy of being with his wife.
This family theme is not some contrived way to get a pat on the back from the Christian community. The album is something that is overflowing naturally out of Beleaf's life. Songs like "We Gon' Make It Out (feat. Gracy)" and "You're Okay (feat. ABIV)" show his need to provide for his family while appreciating and assuring his wife that he will not leave her. His wife Yvette leaves an encouraging voicemail on the track, praising Beleaf for his love and attention to their kids. The way they cut up the sound bites of Beleaf's children is so ill on "Tribe," surely making this a family affair. There is a definite ode to Tribe Called Quest on this one.
The musical journey continues on "Plate" with Beleaf killing it over his own beatboxing. "Baby Daddy" is an uptempo jam that also serves as the album outro. Vocals from Kyra De'Nae helps to give that funk edge that we would hear on Outcast or Kendrick Lamar records.
The Bottom Line: Beleaf presents an album that will make us want more from him, but it's very commendable that he is taking a step back to focus on fatherhood. If In Fatherhood is the last we hear from Beleaf, I am content.
Song to Download Now:
"Ain't This Life Perfect" (Get it on iTunes here.)
to add lyrics if not listed.
