\n“ManMade” is the sophomore album from multi-instrumentalist\/producer, Zo! of the Foreign Exchange\u2019s +FE Music family. This album once again displays Zo!\u2019s distinct \u2018polished\u2019 R&B\/Soul production, although it\u2019s evident his sound has matured quite a bit since 2010\u2019s “SunStorm”. As with most of the Foreign Exchange releases, the featured artists should be quite familiar to established fans, with guest appearances from Phonte, Eric Roberson, Sy Smith, Jeanne Jolly, Carmen Rogers, Anthony David and more.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Listening to “ManMade” I almost found myself forgetting this was a solo release from Zo! As Phonte shares production credits and wrote most songs on the record, I guess there\u2019s a certain familiarity to the music, which doesn\u2019t reach too far outside of Zo!\u2019s comfort zone. In saying that, it\u2019s clear he\u2019s taken a few risks with production, experimenting with different tempos and arrangements (e.g. \u201cThe Train\u201d featuring Sy Smith). His distinct contemporary sound has a clear 80\u2019s R&B influence, which will appeal to the \u2018grown folk\u2019 music lovers and anyone looking for those nostalgic vibes.<\/p>\n

Standout tracks for me are \u201cWe Are On The Move\u201d featuring Erro. It\u2019s a soulful two-stepper, which I\u2019ve been giving weekly club-spins over the past few weeks. Another favourite is the current single, \u201cCount To Five\u201d featuring Gwen Bunn. There\u2019s something so pure and delightful about her vocals and smile! Make sure to check out the golden era Sesame Street inspired video (below). It\u2019s bound to put a smile of your face! \u201cMaking Time\u201d with Phonte & Choklate is probably the most musically rich song on the record. Live horns, phasing pads, funk guitar licks, and great harmonies create that familiar, ambient and warm nu-soul sound.
\nOverall I don\u2019t consider this album a game-changer, but really, who cares? It oozes quality and is a definite step up for Zo! as a producer. If you like your soul music raw then this one probably isn\u2019t for you. However, if you like the smoother side of the spectrum, it contains all the right elements of modern day soulful, lover\u2019s music. Another great release from the +FE Music family!<\/p>\n