

Musiq Soulchild surrounds himself with Philly talent on his debut. Beatboxer Scratch’s surreal vocalese electrifies his "Introlude" and the rhythmically stuttering "Speechless," while James Poyser crafts a churchy Fender Rhodes bounce on "My Girl." For his part, our host is an unpretentious gentleman who shyly asks a girl out on "Just Friends (Sunny)," celebrates his valentine on ballad "Love," and leads his friends and neighbors in a rousing jam session on "143," which makes beeper code feel more personal than words. Aijuswanaseing radiates sensitivity and emotion—it's house a party that’s full of soul.