Son Tensei – ‘Son Is Different’ [Album Review]

Grammy Award-winning Producer/Composer Son Tensei (Christopher Kramer) shares new project Son Is Different, a 12-track project that explores the concept of true love, gratitude and appreciation for those dear to him who helped him along the way. The production is mostly handled by roderick jackson, and 2 othe rproducers with Son Tensei  on keys and additional production duties

The project starts with “Tree of Life,” a jazzy-soul track that is underpinned by Son Tensei’s expressive vocal style and profound lines like “If it wasn’t for you, love would be foreign to me/Your love is so true, smelling and tasting your fruit/If it wasn’t for you, I could never be me” which underpin adulation and gratitude. Next is “Sick Father,” a soulful hip-hop track that sees Son Tensei reflecting on his childhood. From discovering the world to hanging on to the words of his father, we get to see the evolution of a young Son Tensei into a man. “Good News I Guess?” is an uplifting and hopeful piece that reminds us of the need to have good thoughts, no matter how crazy life can get. The track is produced by Romzoni. This is followed by the polyrhythmic groove of “Free.” The track is an experimental musical interlude that adds an extra flavour to the project. Producer BrandonMeeks adds his finesse to “Tranquil Skies,” an uplifting piece that serves as a reminder to seize the day and enjoy it before it withers away, while “Tunnel Vision” continues the theme with a hopeful perspective.

The project is a mix of genres and doesn’t stick to a particular formula. Son Tensei’s explorative approach is unorthodox and doesn’t conform to the usual.  “Home” gives listeners a warm welcome with its alluring textures and heartfelt lyrics that centre around the concept of home, while “MEOW” talks about the modern age of social media and oversharing. “BOBA TEA” is produced by BetejaymadeIt, and it’s an Afrobeats/R&B infused jam that shows Son Tensei’s versatility as a musician. The final track, “ROOTED,” helps bring the project to a close.

Other notable tracks include the groovy “ALIGNMENT” and the dreamy “I KNEW.” The tracks range from experimental pop to alternative hip-hop fused with contemporary sounds.

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