Future Brown [LP]

There is an abundance of talent in Future Brown, a production crew that consists of Asma Maroof and Daniel Pinieda (aka Nguzunguzu), Fatima Al-Qadiri, and J-Cush. The first three are responsible for some of the best releases on revered labels like Fade to Mind and UNO, while Cush has operated Lit City Trax. Equally notable is the long list of rappers and singers the group snared for its self-titled Warp album -- one that combines established underground figures and upcoming commercial artists. Likewise, the group amalgamates a head-spinning variety of intensely rhythmic, street-level club music styles: footwork, grime, bass, reggaeton, commercial R&B and rap sounds, even cumbia. Most of the tracks, ranging from "Wanna Party" (featuring Chicago's Timbaland-supported Tink) to"Vernáculo" (with Mad Decent associate Maluca), are designed as party anthems. A rare diversion, "Dangerzone," is a wispy ballad that involves Ian Isiah and Kelela. From their inspirations to their choices in collaborators -- the inclusion of underappreciated rapid-fire rapper Shawnna alone is particularly laudable -- Future Brown clearly know what to synthesize and how to select. ~ Andy Kellman