The sheer effort that went into the “Dreamer” EP by Louisiana based creative Malcolm A, immediately shows with the sequencing of the first 3 tracks. Everyone on these songs sound empowered to the highest degree and I love it. If it doesn’t amp you up, nothing will. First off, it’s Malcolm A on the title track “Dreamer”, showcasing both his rapping and singing skills. The artist does a fine job, sounding highly confident whether he’s dropping a series of intense rhymes, or melodically soaring above the rest, in anthemic style, on the chorus. “Paradise” introduces Kidd Kidd on the hook and rhyme, and a trunk-rattling groove which underscores Malcolm A.’s sense of aggression which will send fans vibes of authenticity.
The opening triad closes with the mellifluous and soulful “I Got Ya”, featuring 3d Na’tee. The pleasurable beat transitions to a smooth and breezy R&B melody, with a head-nodding bounce running through its underbelly. As always Malcolm A’s flow sits right in the pocket.
“Making Moves” is another display of how Malcolm A. manages to maintain powerful melodies embedded into his hip-hop. This, and the bounce of his handpicked beats, creates captivating earworms that are designed for both the headphones and the dancefloor.
The “Dreamer” EP displays Malcolm A’s multi-talented artistic skills and lyrical ability extremely well. You could play this for your boo, your neighbor, or the truest street kid you know, and they will each vibe and resonate to a different part of this recording. Whether it is the soulfulness and groove, or the confidence, swag, and bars Malcolm A delivers. Whatever it may be, you’ll be satisfied.
And the best is still to come with the EP closer “We’re Okay” which features another Louisiana native, Dawn Richard. You may remember Richard from MTV’s Making the Band 3 and the super girl group Danity Kane, as well as her collaboration with Sean “Diddy” Combs. She also had a Billboard charting album in 2015.
“We’re Okay” is an uplifting ballad with Dawn Richard’s voice bringing the feels, while Malcolm A surprises again with his resonant rhyming. This track will wind you up and set you off for a passionate night, after taking you through love’s ups and downs.
The production on this project is top notch and contains some of the best instrumentals of the year. Another key component that adds to the “Dreamer” EP is its features. They all play well in context to the songs and provide an extra dimension to each arrangement which enhances and embellishes the listening experience of this recording.
Ultimately the performance of Malcolm A throughout the EP, is what’s important, and he delivers in spades. The rapper/singer’s voice and verses match well with the instrumentals on this project, and while the features are all great, he makes sure he’s able standout on his own.
While the sound of southern hip hop has traditionally been dominated by artists coming out of Atlanta and Houston, Louisiana artists like Malcolm A are currently producing music that will likely soon take over the rap scene. They have a sound where artists mix rapping with singing, and listeners are absolutely loving it. The “Dreamer” EP is a perfect example of that style.
Hook up with Malcolm A on INSTAGRAM and stream his music on all platforms HERE.
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