Out of the Gate Firing
Posted February 22, 2017
By DwayneLacy_NRT, Staff Reviewer
4 For 5 Records is Word Records' brand new hip hop imprint. Word has recognized the impact that hip hop is making on a global scale. Producer and musician Joseph Prielzony oversees the imprint, aided by his impressive resume and ear for music. The first round draft pick of the label is Steven Malcolm. He hit the ground running first as part of the Winter Jam tour and now with his self-titled album. Hard hitting beats, clean flow, trap music and an impressive list of guests help to boost this already promising artist.
Lead single "Hot Boy" is definitely a banger with the trap beat and the signature staccato-styled flow that frequently goes with a song of this nature. Some may find this song a little braggadocious and may misunderstand Steven, but paired with songs like "Never Let You Go (feat. Bianca)," it's clear that there is no way that he should be judged by one song.
One thing you will not find is an album full of double entendres and really heavy lyrics. However, you will find that relatable topics, songs to turn up to and fun tracks are all there. Head nodding is a must on "Feel Me," and his flow is impressive as Steven wonders if people will understand his message of hope. The boom bip is strong on "Six Four," while listeners might notice that Steven falls into the Andy Mineo flow on this one and a few others. This should subside as he grows and continues to carve his own niche.
Things turn up with the dancehall reggae-tinged "Fire (featuring Beam)." "Party in the Hills (feat. Andy Mineo and Hollyn)" is the put your tops down pre-summer jam with a high energy beat accented by the synths and guitars weaving in and out. Houston rapper Pyrexx helps to get things popping on "Leh Get It" to complete an unexpected but dope collaboration. Steven Malcom pays homage to his strong affection for "Cereal," which should be a fun song to chuckle about.
Steven gets candid and expresses his regret for premarital sex on "The Struggle," even speaking on the struggle to live a pure life. Now, he is dead set on living pure until marriage. I would be remiss if I did not mention the job that Scootie does with his falsetto-laced hook. This brother kills it.
The Bottom Line: This is a strong debut for Steven Malcolm, and he will continue to grow artistically and spiritually. He has a lot of music to ride to and songs that expose his humanity. This is only the beginning for this promising artist.
Song to Download Now:
"Party in the Hills" (Get it on iTunes here.)
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