John Legends protégé Estelle is big across the pond and has been making waves in the states. Her single “American Boy” is gaining buzz and so is her album. I was very curious, because there was such a variation in her two singles. “Wait A Minute” was very blues, jazz club—“American Boy” is a little more mainstream and Kanye adds to the flair of the track. I didn’t know what to expect from her album. The results are in! “Shine” is well worth the investment. This British bombshell puts me in the mind of Lauryn Hill—I’m not comparing, but there are some similarities. The tracks blend R&B with a hint of reggae and hip-hop. She worked with several producers creating an assortment of sounds to choose from. From Will.i.Am, Mark Ronson, to Swizz Beatz she’s got a well blended record. I’ve grown fond of her over the last few months. She’s got her own style which I sincerely appreciate. It’s a good first album, very rich and soulful. I give it a B+.

Stand Out Tracks:

Magnificent

Pretty Please (Love Me),

American Boy

& More Than Friends.