“Alright I’m done”, those are the words Fessa says to me with a skeptical smile. This is at least the 7th time he’s said this to me, and he’ll say it a few more times before Silver Surfer is completed to his liking. That’s the name of the project that has occupied all his free time in his studio 432.

Over the last two months I’ve been at 432 observing Fessa’s process and watching him develop the album. This album like its name sake is a herald of the new energy surrounding Fessa. Silver Surfer explores a new level of vulnerability and cohesion that translates amazingly well. The sequencing of songs keeps you engaged through a vivid picture that’s painted by a lyrical paintbrush. A beautiful painting needs an equal frame, the beats and production adorn it magnificently. Another quiet joy of the album is that it doesn’t matter how you listen to it. From top to bottom, and back to front it is a smooth ride along a monorail train taking you through a myriad of scenes.

Miles Away - Infectious beat, this song has plenty of quotable moments. I find myself saying “Flame on, silver surfing”.

Operation - This is Fessa’s personal favorite, and the bounce it has is undeniable.

Thinking and driving - While the song can be listened to while actually thinking and driving, I find it best listened to in the passenger seat. Ideally on a late night cruising down lake shore drive, absorbing the lyrics and lights.

Mobb shit- Retelling of life, struggle and triumphs, the autotune harmonies in the background bring out an eerie human vulnerability.

Lonely- Some of my favorite visual descriptions, "Painting pictures, dressed in super suits hopping out the two tone”, …”lips pink gloss like some Nuvo”

Underwater - A great song to start the day with some introspection.

Represent - Life lessons and experiences etched over a thumping beat.

Johnny Rockets - A challenge to rappers to rap. A lyrical exercise for Fessa, and some of the finest shit talking you’ll find this side of the lake.

Favor - The heart of the tape. I believe it being last is so symbolic of at the foundation, or stripped bare this what you find. The story telling, the hope and optimism, the moments of vulnerability that you can hear. The ending lyrics bring a smile to my face remind me and the listener with a little spice that; “ It’s Fess, lil bitch”.