I purposefully took extra time to synthesize and produce the write up for this album. I wanted to ensure that that the caliber of work that your about to read only did the album as much justice as possible before you, my good people reading this, would listen to this incredible album for yourself. Funny thing about this album was it's timing; I remember standing outside the KPFK radio station after our "Love Chords" broadcast talking with Glockz and Microphone about the downfall of R&B and Soul like it was the fall of the Byzantine empire. We reminisced on "old school" tracks and artisits like, Tevin Campbell's "Can We Talk," New Edition, and Mint Condition. We talked about the lack of musicianship and quality contributions in recent R&B and Soul. With the anticipated and triumphant return of artist D'angelo to the music scene we all agreed and expect that great R&B and Soul will make a return as soon as D'angelo begins producing new music. But with the release of BJ The Chicago Kid's "Pinapple Now-Laters" album, it looks like we won't have to wait on D'angelo to bring the R&B and Soul back to it's glory days.
I first heard of BJ The Chicago Kid a number of years ago on Kendrick Lamar's self entitled EP. He was featured on track entitled, "Faith" alongside artist Punch. Needless to say Faith was one of those tracks that spoke to my soul so perfectly, it was his voice on that chorus that really tied the track together, gave it depth and birthed a sense of soul. So upon hearing about his Pineapple Now-Laters album release i waited anxiously till it was up on iTunes for official purchase [Purchase @ iTunes]. In my excited wait i did a little research and heard snippits and leaks of the albums and i fell in love. I know that sounds thirsty, but that's the way it felt when i heard this Chicago crooner's song, "Lady Lady." And of course that only made the wait for this album longer. I purchased this album the first day it came out and it turns out hundreds of thousands of others had the same idea, because it become the number one selling R&B and Soul Album on iTunes the first day it came out. Finally having the full album in tow, i pressed play and fell in love with music all over again. Although, Pineapple Now-Laters features a good amount of must hear sexy slow jams for the Lover in you, do not pigeon hold it to just that. There are several blues inspired tracks that explores the depths of contemplation, inquiry, humility, and of course the trials and tribulations of what it means to be "human."
BJ The Chicago Kid commands this album, showcasing his prowess as a vocalist and more importantly offering listeners a part of himself. There is so much of him in this album and it's so well produced and sung that it would be impossible for anyone hearing this album not to, at the very least understand this soul better, to feel. Production wise BJ The Chicago Kid collaborated with many takented producers such as....Fly Union, Jairus Mozee, and Soundwave Tde. I find it difficult to really give you a favorite track off this album, i'm so taken with them all but if i even have to convince you to pick this album up i'd suggest you listen to "Sex x Money x Sneakers," "The World is a Ghetto," and one of my favorites, "Dream lI." Pineapple Now Laters is available for purchase on iTunes. Pick it up, press play, and let yourself fall back in love with Soul and R&B.
For The Love of Music,
Queenie
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