A squeaky-clean, cuss-free project that pushes the boundaries of anything ordinary and conventional, rising artist and rapper D. Lew the Don’s debut album, “It Was Good To See You” sets you on one adventurously memorable sonic journey that rests at the touchstone of creativity and innovation. D. Lew is not shy of referring to a popular New Jack Swing era, taking a cue from the legendary Bobby Brown’s “Don’t Be Cruel” while infusing it with his signature D. Lew charm, artistic integrity, and authenticity. The album’s extensive appeal has been underscored by the artist’s willingness to explore a variety of sounds and styles spanning hip-hop, R&B, trap, pop, dancehall, and so much more. This is a statement debut release and one that signals a brighter future for this perceptive artist, who is just at the inception of his career.
The opener, “Degrees” is a high-intensity, dynamic, and cinematic tune that is punchline-heavy and contains the thrilling chaos of underground rap wrapped inventively with modern lyricism for one dramatic masterpiece with replay value. Everything here is captivatingly unconventional with the hauntingly refreshing, ominous influences and lyrical assertiveness of D. Lew elevating the track’s appeal to epic heights.
“Summer Fever” is the ultimate cure for those summer hangovers. This is a dance-peppered masterpiece with pulsating dance-pop beats that crackle like fireworks, inviting a listener to dive headfirst into familiar moments that might not last but will always matter…just like the season itself. This is a bit of now, urging you to grab and embrace it with both hands and soak up every second as if it will never come to a stop. D. Lew’s commanding vocals entwine seamlessly with the action-packed beats, exuding an inseparably infectious cadence of sorts!
“Sleepeyes” is definitive with alluring sonic stages that capture the spirit of hip-hop, pop, and R&B. It is lively with an upbeat quality complemented by those singable hooks. “Main” is where you will find my heart and soul. This is quite a chill and yet expressive blend of trap and soul, evoking that refreshingly new yet nostalgic charm you don’t stumble upon. Delivered from a point of both vulnerability and strength, you’d not be wrong to refer to it as a Trap-Soul-fueled ballad.
“Put It Down” is an effortlessly cool tour de force that captures the emotionality of R&B and the expressiveness of hip-hop. The production is delightful, and D. Lew knows how to make the most of it. Further down, he stretches the limits of this same song with two contrastingly endearing versions: “Put It Down (Afternoon Mix)” and “Put It Down (Evening Mix)”
With “Put It Down (Afternoon Mix),” the energy is at an all-time high with the vibrant and invigorating trap-fueled elements providing a steady backdrop for D. Lew’s self-assured lyrical and vocal delivery. The catchy and infectious hooks make it a memorable anthem that will stick in the mind long after the final notes fade away.
With “Put It Down (Evening Mix),” the pace is slowed down as the gentle melodies exude serenity and velvety, unfolding with a tranquil promise of introspection, reflection, and wonder. This is something beautifully ethereal.
“Capstone – Outro” sees D. Lew in lyrical overdrive as he takes the bull by the horns and surrenders a raw, emotive, and introspective version of himself that is as hard-hitting as it is accessible. This track features a radiating production and is a huge testament to the lyrical versatility and confidence D. Lew brings to the table.
“It Was Good To See You” deserves all the hype it can get!
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