Scarborough native Jhyve shows range and versatility on his five-song EP, Conversations. Lyrically, it's sexy and gritty, exploring the thrills and ordeals of modern romance. But there's a brightness to the music that's reminiscent of late '90s R&B.
On songs like "Human" and "Feel Something" — a clear standout on the project — Jhyve recalls R&B's earlier times with expert precision: snappy guitar riffs and structured, predictable melodies conjure memories of Motorola two-way pagers and bedazzled denim. The nostalgic thread on Conversations works, for the most part, but at times starts to wear. There's a fine line between reminiscing and being stuck in an era that Jhyve crosses on songs like "Convince Me."
Still, the tight production and infectious melodies on Conversations redeem any the EP's flaws. When compared to his peers, Jhyve's sound is in a league of its own.
(Awesome Music)On songs like "Human" and "Feel Something" — a clear standout on the project — Jhyve recalls R&B's earlier times with expert precision: snappy guitar riffs and structured, predictable melodies conjure memories of Motorola two-way pagers and bedazzled denim. The nostalgic thread on Conversations works, for the most part, but at times starts to wear. There's a fine line between reminiscing and being stuck in an era that Jhyve crosses on songs like "Convince Me."
Still, the tight production and infectious melodies on Conversations redeem any the EP's flaws. When compared to his peers, Jhyve's sound is in a league of its own.