0

Album Review: "Shelley FKA DRAM" by Shelley FKA DRAM (7/10)

Shelley FKA DRAM

Shelley FKA DRAM

Atlantic Records, Empire Distribution

Producers: Various

The latest moniker from D.R.A.M. happens to be his given name, Shelley—the identity signifies a new era in his music. Shelley FKA DRAM celebrates a new name and sound, as the 10-track LP is more aligned with R&B/Soul, displaying growth from tongue-in-cheek rap, like 2016’s inescapable “Broccoli.” An impressive cast of collaborators includes: Summer Walker (“All Pride Aside”), H.E.R and watt (“The Lay Down”) and Erykah Badu (“’93 Acura Vigor”), who contribute to the album’s standout tracks. “Cooking With Grease” is a smooth ballad and nod to his recent devotion to sobriety, diet and exercise.