RJD2 Collaborator Jordan Brown premieres impressive first solo project

Modern R&B is at a good place with voices like Jordan Brown continuing to creep out from the woodwork of the underground scene. Brown, who was featured on RDJ2’s recent album Dame Fortune, has finally come out with his own project Where We Were via SoulBounce. Jordan provided some imposing vocal hooks on Dame Fortune and he did not slow down by any means on his debut solo record.

Where We Were is a confirmation of Brown’s silky vocal chords, stellar production team (Philly’s own Kayin), and ability to transcend the construct of genre. The Key covered Jordan’s soul-influenced single “Goodbye” in September and the rest of the EP does not dissapoint. On tracks like “Now and Later,” Brown’s tone is seductive but melodic and his voice is layered perfectly to create a sexy, smoky texture. With the next track, “Leave It Here”, Brown and his producer Kayin explore classical jazz by sampling Miles Davis’ “Blue In Green.” To choose such a monumental jazz record as a sample is a big risk, but Brown stays composed and delivers an elegant slew of harmonies and verses on top of the chopped up piano melody from “Blue in Green.” “Leave It Here” concludes with tasteful humming and whistling to add even more creative decorum to the record. Brown also explores a slow-dance tune with the final track “Waltz” that incorporates a fitting jazz flute riff and a standard 3/4 tempo that you really can not help dancing to.

Brown’s introduction to his musical range and talent is a dominant one and leaves listeners waiting for much more. Check out Where We Were below.