SON OF PAIN - GOVERNOR
Following in the contemporary footsteps of scratchy soul singers like Anthony Hamilton, newbie Governor’s “Son of Pain” proves solid soul’s still around. It’s ironically charming how he rarely rides the beat, gruffly singing staccato over almost every track and ending verses on high notes. Tracks like “Blood Sweat and Tears” have him wailing about “ghetto rain” and pain, while the rest hinges upon various “meeting a girl” scenarios. On “Make Love to You,” Guv picks up a cute waitress and convinces her he’s the one by stretching his voice beautifully over the saxophone-laden chorus. Taking a very brave step, he also remakes Donnie Hathaway’s classic “I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know” as “Never Wanna Leave.” Thankfully, Governor doesn’t overdo his offbeat runs, delivering his distinct voice with clarity and precision. Billboard
