shwayze

With a reality show on MTV and the recent publicity on prime time (think "Gossip Girl") Shwayze is easy to write off as a rising corporate pop icon. Yet, despite walking the tightrope between overexposure and mainstream success, Shwayze's debut album is a pleasant surprise, painting a perfect picture of a laid back, California summer.

Catchy, mellow beats paired with an acoustic guitar compliment the west coast rapper's smooth delivery. Although the subject matter is less than diverse (nothing beyond booze, bikinis and bud), it is unpretentious and ultimately a relaxing testament to carefree days and late-night parties.

In what may be the strongest track, "Don't Be Shy," Shwayze admits, "I'm just a kid, living a dream/Slid in the scene like an old pair of jeans/You know my name, but you don't know me," creating an exciting but ultimately relatable view of his rise to stavrdom. Other standouts include hit singles "Buzzin'" and "Corona and Lime," where Shwayze blends elements of rap and surf-rock to create a refreshing take on popular music.

But don't get me wrong, the album isn't perfect. Many of the hooks sound eerily repetitive and the lyrics are cliched to say the least. However, Shwayze doesn't try to be anything other than himself, which is admirable in its own right. Shwayze is perfect for a chill afternoon with friends or for anyone who isn't quite ready to let go of summer. It's an album for all the California dreamers who, despite the weather outside, close their eyes and imagine sunshine and Malibu beaches. Above all it's a solid debut that highlights Shwayze's potential and predicts a bright future.