Kaytranada Introduces Us to ‘Bubba’
I first heard of the Canadian DJ and producer, Kaytranada, on Mary J. Blige’s “Telling the Truth”, one of the diamonds in the rough from her Strength of a Woman album. Although it’s been three years since his debut album, 99.9%, his presence in the music in the music industry has extended well into the last decade. I didn’t really have many expectations before listening to BUBBA. However, I had a hunch it was going to be worth my while.
The production throughout BUBBA alone is enough to make it irresistible to sit still while listening to it. In fact, my first listen took place while I was working out. Let’s just say I killed that workout. While the album is packed full of strategically placed cameos, Kaytranada manages not to lose his flair in the process. His DJ skills are even apparent between the transitions of each song. BUBBA comes off more as one irresistible track, rather than individual songs.
The (at times) disjointed production doesn’t deter from the infectious grooves BUBBA provides. “Do It”, the opening track starts off like a Blaxploitation blast from the past, before transitioning into the futuristic Caribbean pop feel of “2 the Music” featuring Iman Omari. There’s no question that “Gray Area” is a surefire hit and upbeat dance track. Conversely, “10%” featuring Kali Uchis, is the lead single that speaks to a concept we all can relate to: getting our just profits. The late Ol Dirty Bastard would be proud. The song sounds like an updated version of his Kelis assisted smash, “Gimme My Money”.
“Taste” featuring VanJess, is one of the album’s sexier tracks that implores a potential lover to step up to the plate in more ways than one. Expect this one to be a BUBBA fan favorite. Similarly, “Oh No” featuring Estelle is a bare-bones percussive groove with hypnotic hooks and melodies. Conversely, the slick pun intentions and wit of “Vex Oh” provide a tale of falling for the wrong woman, with the help of GoldLink, Eight9fly and Ari PenSmith. The song is the hit that just slipped away from the B side of Drake’s “One Dance”….but more intriguing.
The only bad thing that can be said about the album is the promotion for it should be rolling in like a tidal wave. There are literally no skips here, just solid production and clever lyrics throughout. However, something tells me BUBBA‘s success will still be substantial, due to word of mouth alone.