Justin Hicks – Man Of Style
After seeing him a couple of times with Meshell Ndegeocello at North Sea Jazz in Rotterdam and Rockit in Groningen, and hearing him step forward on Meshell’s great album “The Gospel Of James Baldwin”, singer and songwriter Justin Hicks finally releases his debut album called “Man Of Style”. There is a highly infectious mix of jazz, folk, gospel, soul and r&b here to delve into. But most of all, it is Justin’s incredibly unique voice, both alluring and magic, full of little wonders and colors, always encompassing the lyrics and stories he has to tell. “Rest Assured”, the album’s vulnerable opening track, meanders into a sort of meditation with some beautiful guitar work courtesy of Chris Bruce, who also co-produced the album with Meshell Ndegeocello, who accompanies softly, almost vaguely on vocals here, and some very warm Rhodes and keys by Jake Sherman, of Jake & Abe.
“Poly” reminds me of some of the better-sounding synth pop tracks from the 80s, complete with tabla box and synthesizers. There is also a very nonchalant, easy-sounding, light-footed and very relaxed “College Park” where Justin oozes and flutters through the breezy track which has some fascinating backing vocals too and a slide guitar to die for, played by the great Marvin Sewell. All of the tracks were written by Justin (except one) and the title track, this daring poem with its velvety touch, where he accompanies himself on piano, is one of the highlights of the album. Both reckless and beautiful. I really dig the Rhodes on “Oh” (played by Abe Rounds) which is another sweet little poem including the vocals of Kenita Miller-Hicks. Another brilliant piece. Future classic! “Oh My God I’m So In Love” indeed. Things turn rockier and bumping on “See The Sun”. There is this brooding tension on the Andy Bey-like “I’m Just” which works well with various samples and Meshell’s really fat bass.
“Wendy” sounds like a 70s folk anthem with Fleetwood Mac overtones. Justin sounds startlingly adventurous and outstanding on this little masterpiece. He is accompanied only by Chris Bruce on guitar. “Bread Will Rise” is pure Justin where he accompanies himself on piano and really simply draws you into his world. “Creator Plan Upstairs” is a variation on the Pharoah Sanders classic “The Creator Has A Masterplan”. It’s another case of exceptional beauty. Listen to the extraordinary vocal arrangement (with Kenita Miller-Hicks and Jade Hicks) and the soft and tender piano. The album closes with the very intimate and soulful “Use Your Head”.
Make sure to catch Justin on one of his few European dates:
