Eric Bellinger
Eazy Call
(YFS/ Empire)

The Name Eric Bellinger has been floating around for a while now, maybe not in your circle but definitely in mine. In 2013 he released a three-part series of mixtapes, “Born 2 Sing,” and in May of 2014 he released his first album “The Rebirth.” It peaked at #15 on the US R&B charts and entered the Heatseekers albums chart as well.

In addition to creating his own style, Bellinger has written and produced some of your favorite records. In 2011 he won a Grammy for Chris Brown’s F.A.M.E, and he’s worked with Usher, Fetty Wap, and 2Chainz to name a few. Bellinger is extremely talented and has probably been on your radar indirectly for quite some time in one way or another.

Eazy Call is, to me, one of his best projects. It’s cohesive and has great concepts and great use of nostalgic samples. “Main Thang,” featuring Dom Kennedy, is super sexy and a good vibe all around. It also sneaks in a great Xscape sample.

One of my favorite cuts is “Aint Ya Ex” featuring Mila J and Tink. I love everything about it, the melodic approach, and the old school vibe with new school lyrics. I can definitely listen to it on repeat.

“Bagged” is a tune for the ladies. Bellinger has this uncanny talent for mixing the sweetest phrases with a “ratchet” twist. That’s a skill, one that not everyone is good at. “Role Play” is definitely a song you don’t want to play for anyone who isn’t special to you. Lyrically it explores what it’s like to be in a sexually healthy relationship and explains ways to keep the fire lit. I’m totally here for it. This project reminds me of the R&B music everyone claims they miss. If you really mean that , buy this album and support an artist trying to maintain that sound and integrity.