Kevin Michael's introductory summertime stunner "We All Want The Same Thing" had all the makings of a left field R&B hit. It had a universally pleasing message (no matter your social circle or racial hue, we all bleed the same), a distinct funk-soul pulse that wasn't exclusively retro, and hip hop cred due to it's Lupe Fiasco cameo. He even had the support of Itunes blasting the record in TV ads for the entire season. Maybe it was the fluffy Afro that scared radio programmers off because "Same Thing" didn't make a dent onto the charts. A shame, because Michael represents one of the best new acts to emerge in 2007 from the States, with a self-titled debut rich with potential hits that challenge the R&B/ pop norm while remaining radio-friendly.

Album highlight "Hood Buzzin'" pairs his light and creamy tenor over a warm West Coast groove, celebrating a newfound ghetto fab lifestyle in the face of haters who told him he wouldn't make it. But don't take this for tiresome baller braggadocio. No, Kevin is smart enough to woo you in with his flashy escapades with his girl, but "Hood" is more about expressing relationship solidarity and the importance of remaining motivated ("You ain't gotta wish it/ If you want it you can get it") despite the dream-killing doubt of others.

An album and artist that deserve attention beyond the fringes of the music scene, if you're looking for something that's creative and feel-good, go out and support Kevin Michael.



DL: "Hood Buzzin'" (YFH)

Peep the video for the acoustic version of "It Don't Make Any Difference":