Swingfly
Awesomeness - An introduction to Swingfly
EMI
Seven of the ten tracks on "Awesomeness" (a retooling of Swingfly's 2009 album) have already been released as singles, so the album plays like a greatest hits collection. This is party music through and through -- a fusion of hip-hop, pop and rock. It's all pretty ridiculous, but that's part of the charm of Swingfly's sometimes goofy, always endearing persona. Anybody who uses the boast "hot like a fresh baked bun" is clearly not taking himself too seriously. As expected, the first half is the strongest, barreling out of the gate with four major pop hits, including most recent single "Me and my drum" (of the "fresh baked bun" fame). But the second half is no slouch either, highlighted by a pair of older singles (2006's "Something's got me started" remains deliriously fun and fresh four years on). It's a singular sound, but one that's surprisingly versatile. Things even get pensive on album closer "Let you go", with its spare, atmospheric electronics. Recommended for fans of Robyn and Teddybears (both of which Swingfly has worked with in the past).
- Nick James
