The pen behind Usher’s “Climax” and co-pen on Keyshia Coles’ “Enough of No Love” Elijah Blake drops Bijoux 22, his intro solo EP.
The Roc Nation member puts forth a solid 8-track set of tunes to introduce his songwriting and vocal abilities to the masses. “Looking for Perfect” appreciates flaws, and “Birdz” puts a spin on the 90s slang term “pigeons” to describe an untrustworthy woman, as he denounces them to prove his faithfulness. “X.O.X” enlists rapper Common to second the emotion of missing an ex. A combination of the melody, the O’Jay’s “Backstabbers” sample, and Common’s verse refreshingly make the track feel hella throwback. “Beloved” is a stirring ode to a loved one, and Blake uses his slick falsetto on “Vicky’s Secret,” the EP’s token sexy interlude. Capping off the EP is “Everything,” a spiritual, guitar-driven finale.
Stream, download, and enjoy!
