Frank Ocean

I've been pretty lukewarm about most hip-hop for the past 10-15 years, but Frank Ocean's Nostalgia, Ultra was one of my favorite debuts when it came out last year...Frank Ocean came out yesterday:

[www.salon.com]

Good on ya, Frank.

How about that song Bad Religion! Amazing. Beautiful.

I remember checking out that Hotel California song he did a couple of years ago and being mildly impressed. It didn't quite get to me though.

When he came out I kept an eye on his twitter to see how much crap was gonna get flung at him and he kindly retweeted some of the stuff. I hope he gains strength from all the horrible energy being thrown at him and from all the wonderful support. I need to pick up Channel Orange.

Mr. Ocean's streaming the full album on his tumblr:

[frankocean.tumblr.com]

The whole controversy, as overheated and melodramatic as it's been, spurred me to listen to some of his stuff. "Bad Religion" is stellar; I saw the performance from Jimmy Kimmel. Haven't heard all of the new record yet, but he's a very talented guy.

"Haven't heard all of the new record yet, but he's a very talented guy."

I think the media push regarding his sexuality has (surprise, surprise) led to critical hyperbole. He's really good, but. . .

My continual reaction has been that Mayer Hawthorne, on a song to song level, is better.

Still investigating 'em both, but like 'em both. Not sure which best. And am intrigued by a lesser known vintage soul guy who evidently influenced Hawthorne if not both -- Leroy Hutson.

I'm not impressed by Ocean after one listen. Really digging Hawthorne these days. Leroy Hutson has an unfortunate penchant for easy listening mush, but when he's on, he's fucking on, baby. Check "Lucky Fellow" - that's a classic tune.

Yeah, I am not so impressed with this album. Bad Religion is really good. There is some fairly decent stuff on it but alot of mediocre moments. Plus! Alot of the subject matter is ridiculous and very cringe inducing. Thats still a major problem with alot of Urban music (Hip-hop, rap, soul, etc.)

I'll stick with Raphael Saadiq and Maxwell over Frank Ocean, but thanks anyway.