Authenticity

May 2nd, 2011

Artist: The Foreign Exchange

Formats: CD, LP, MP3

Release date: October 12, 2010

Editor’s note: The Foreign Exchange Authenticity tour kicks off this month, and includes a performance in Indianapolis on May 6. Check out the full tour schedule.

On their new album, Authenticity, The Foreign Exchange offer more of their unique blend of R & B and hip hop. Consisting of singer/rapper Phonte and producer, Nicolay, The Foreign Exchange first hit the scene with their heavily lauded 2004 album Connected. Their follow up, Leave It All Behind (2008), achieved even more acclaim, earning them a Grammy nomination in 2009. Similar to their prior releases, Authenticity features several guests from within their musical camp, including Darien Brockington,Yahzarah, and Zo!.

Authenticity is an extension of the musical standard established on Leave It All Behind. While Nicolay sets a funky, but ethereal backdrop, Phonte soulfully muses over the fluidity of love. Highlights include the vacillating opener, “The Last Fall,” the smooth single “Maybe She’ll Dream of Me,” and the beautiful closer “This City Ain’t the Same Without You.” Although the subject matter is limited, Phonte and Nicolay’s superior artistry ensure that the music never gets repetitive or boring.

Following is the official music video for “Maybe She’ll Dream of Me.”

Authenticity is 38 minutes of raw soul-hop at its finest. Nicolay and Phonte’s music is both mentally and physically stimulating, creating a dynamic musical experience. With Authenticity, the Foreign Exchange has solidified their place at the top of contemporary rhythm and blues by digging deep into the unexplored depths of the genre.

Reviewed by Langston Collin Wilkins

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Review Genre(s): Rap and Hip-Hop,Rhythm & Blues, Soul, Funk