Few artists are in love with their career as much as Justin Smith. As an innovator of the game, and an ambassador of good music, he is one face you should remember.
Musically inclined thanks in part to various features on MTV.com, as well as his late father Claydes Charles Smith, who was one of the founding members of the Kool and the Gang, Justin “J-Mello” Smith releases his newest project “My Appointment” to a warm response. The 15 track mixture blends hip hop rhymes, punk rock riffs and dustup drops resulting in what I gauge to be one of this summer’s dopest releases.
In preparation for writing this, I spent the better half of last week previewing the tracks, it’s safe to say that J-Mello is on his indie grind and it’s something you should not be hating on. From the very first track, “Cutters”, to the very last, the all-too-familiar, ever painful tune “Torture” featuring co-production courtesy of his good friend and Janes Addiction guitarist Dave Navarro, the mixtape keeps a steady pace moving from one song to another touching on some common themes like dealing with family and relationship issues (What Did I Do 2 You), the rockstar lifestyle (Matter of Time, Indie Grind) and all that comes with it (Composure) and, of course. partying (Party Like, Beer Pong Booty).
Besides co-production from Dave Navarro, “My Appointment” also features appearances from artists such as Lil Wonda, DJ Skribbles, DJ Barry Carew.
Though every track might not be exactly what you’re expecting to hear, the fact that my expectations were not realized, is what makes this mixture as enjoyable as it is. Besides, who wants to listen to the same cookie cutter tracks that every other artist makes? Not this guy… Which is why I genuinely enjoyed rocking out to this mixture and can say without a doubt that it’ll remain in rotation for the rest of the summer (and certainly months to come).
For a limited time, it can be downloaded for free at JMelloRock.com. The album will also be available for sale on iTunes later this year!
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