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Flynn Adam Atkins has
filled just about every role in the music industry. Producer, label
CEO, member of a hip hop supergroup, and solo artist. He's been
through hard times, good times, and all points in between. This
past year, Flynn has seen things take a turn for the better. LA
Symphony finally released an album that had the support of a record
label and Flynn returned to the studio to complete and release his
third full solo project on up-start label, Illect Recordings.
"In Like Flynn" truly reflects the maturity of an industry
vet.
Flynn's verses are on time as always and the lyrics
reveal the honest emotions that result from years of faithfully
pursuing dreams. The songs deal with hardships, confusion, the desire
for success, and other topics that are common to us all. Flynn addresses
all these issues with a deft touch that makes his lyrical delivery
captivating. Lyrical highlights include the track "Nyquil"
which features an interesting discussion of life, death and what
lies beyond, and the lead single "Love Is Dead (when)"
which describes the importance of love, faith and hope.
On the production front, "In Like Flynn"
varies from track to track, laying a diverse foundation for the
verses. Not surprisingly, many of the beats share the same sample
or vein with tracks from LA Symphony's "The End Is Now",
giving it a similar, somewhat dark feel overall. (Flynn produced
a number of the LAS tracks as well as the majority of the songs
for this album). Some brighter, more upbeat tracks include "High
Speed Car Chase" (which has a killer hook) and the Timbaland-esque
"Superstar" (very reminiscent of "Up Jumps the Boogie").
Overall, "In Like Flynn" provides a great
example of a quality solo or side project. The sound that fans have
come to love (LAS), a few key guest appearances, and thematically
reaching out on a more personal level. As a member of a group, many
intimacies of life can be avoided or hidden. Flynn lowers his gloves
a bit, exposing his chin, and opens up to his audience for a greater
understanding of the man behind the mic. Filled with catchy tunes
and clever lyrics, "In Like Flynn" is certainly a solid
addition to any hip hop collection.
Suggested
Listening: LA Symphony - "The End Is Now",
Joey the Jerk "Average Joe", Pigeon John "Dating
Your Sister"
Key Tracks:
"High Speed Car Chase", "Nyquil", "Freaky
Flow"
Review
Rating: 3.75 out of 5 stars
Reviewer:
the TRu
Used with permission from
www.HipHopForTheSoul.com
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