Personally, the sound exemplified on Blue Inc is a refreshing development. In only 7 songs, Blue Room Mafia showcases an excellence not usually seen on any first major release. The only complaint I have with this album is the monotony of the lyrics, but this is more than saved by the flow and technical skill exemplified by the seven artists present in the 30-minute project. (H1, Nino, Kojay, Col3trane, Essjay, Silence, and Lauren Ralph). In a short conversation with Lauren Ralph, Blue Room Mafia’s producer, he spoke on the production of “Blue Inc”, and how he drew heavily from the influence he takes from artists local to their hometown of Birmingham, England, such as The Oddysee and Joe Corfield. As well as the genres of jazz, old school hip-hop, and Bossa Nova. These influences are present on songs like “Sahara”, of which utilizes an off-beat synth chop characteristic of reggae-dub, and “Fireworks” of which works a melodic harp sample into its heart. This versatility of influences is felt in other ways throughout the album as well, with the verses on “Blue Inc” varying wildly in tone and emotion. Of these, my personal favorite is the changes heard on “Codies”, a track that showcases Blue Room Mafia at their greatest. H1, the only Blue Room Mafia member featured on every track in “Blue Inc”, gives a fast and harsh verse that details his own drug use and proficiency with women. It is by far my favorite of the album (with second place going to Silence’s verse in “Big Loss”).
All in all, Blue Inc is an excellent first work. There is certainly room for improvement within the substance of each members’ verses, but the flow and style of each is unmatched. As one cohesive work, Blue Inc touts fantastic production and an excellent energy. There is very clearly a future for Blue Room Mafia, and I am almost certain we will be seeing more out of them in the near future. Don’t go into “Blue Inc” expecting perfection, but recognize the group as one of the best voices coming out of Birmingham right now. Their skill is present, and I am more than excited for their future development. Blue Inc gets my full recommendation.
by James Blakely
