Following in the footsteps of K-OS comes Kamau, a moral spirit intent on spreading soulful verses in poetic rap fashion. As a member of the Pangea Project, which includes Equinox199, Change, and Natural, this Toronto rapper embraces positivity throughout his lyrics. First is Kamau's debut recording, but unfortunately this EP doesn't capture the energy of his years of experience performing live.

The first single, 'Old Soul' has an enticing jazz feel, which led to it charting on campus stations across Canada. 'GloriousLife' is the most soulfully uplifting song on the album, as Kamau's poetic verses seemingly capture the beauty of life. Life can make you such a consumer that sometimes we forget how important it can be to sit back, listen and observe. Kamau nails this concept on the head with 'Inspired' as he shouts out most big Canadian hip-hoppers on the chorus, letting them know he's listening, but glues the song together with inspirational verses. The bonus track 'Freedom Calls' is a worthy last minute addition to this EP, as Kamau's gritty R&B chorus paints tear-drenched landscapes of the pain and struggles explored in his verses.

On First, Kamau provides a relaxed conscious listening experience. He makes music for the mind and the soul, distancing himself as far as possible from the upbeat club-friendly hip-hop music populating the mainstream. Although not as captivating as his live performance, First just might be the return to roots that hip-hop so desperately needs.

Click here to buy the album at kamau.ca