Canadian producer/composer/singer and rapper Byron ‘Slakah the Beatchild’ Joseph’s new album Something Forever is a total gem. His music encompasses everything from soul to hip-hop with plenty of chill out tracks.

This is an album that shifts between genres as Slakah constantly surprises. There are many sides to this man and its obvious his soul is soaked in classic musical influences from the past and present.

'When the Night Stood Still' is an impressive opener and gets everything off on the right track. It's chilled and sets to tone for what is to come.

The backing track for 'B-Boy Beef V2' reminded me of the feel of Stevie Wonder's classic Innervisions album. In fact there's an obvious Stevie Wonder inspiration throughout this album.

In fact of this album's 11 tracks, which come in just shy of 45 minutes, there isn't a dull moment. As a package it doesn't come much neater than this. There's a little something here for everyone.

9

Nick Smithson