Artist: Trey Songz
Album: Inevitable EP
Genre: R’n’b / hip-hop
Label: Atlantic, Songbook

Nobody could ever accuse Trey Songz of being a slacker. His output over the past few years has been pretty staggering, with four studio albums since 2005, numerous mixtapes, singles, and now this EP. It’s surprising he isn’t more of a household name in this part of the world for that work ethic, and for the genuine quality of his material. Inevitable is a smooth, velvety release that’s almost soothing for your ears, such are the easy listening vibes running through it and the silky vocals which come attached. It’s only five songs and twenty minutes long but delivers a lot more than its undemanding sound might suggest.

“Top of the World” has an intricately measured sound, very gentle and guarded that yet manages to hint at a huge ocean of potential. The vocals are its defining feature, with the music downplayed to mask something more bombastic in scope. It’s laden with sentiment and surprisingly affecting and thoughtful despite the wavering set-up. The sound is beautifully crafted, understated yet effective, and manages to envelop the listener completely in its seamless and willowy threads.

“What I Be On” keeps itself restrained also, but jettisons the more sentimental vibe for something edgier. It’s not particularly rough and despite the rapping sounds a bit stripped down. It remains very catchy in its own way however, the more upfront singing style and stronger music adding a varied background. “I Do” then goes back to the well of emotion, using flickers of piano and more refined singing to lend it a softer, more soulful air. It’s earnest and sweet but can meander at times – its running time isn’t kind to it, for all that slower songs tend to take their time. Trey’s vocals are still the best part of the affair, polished and classy with hints of the late great MJ at times.

“Outside (Part 1)” is a slow-burning love song of sorts that manages to simmer, if never completely realise its incandescent potential. That said, setting up something grandiose then keeping everything a bit more grounded does seem to be a characteristic of the album, and this is a fine listen nonetheless. “Sex Ain’t Better than Love” matches a cheesy title with cheesy subject matter but manages to be smooth and weirdly compelling. The mismatching beats and careful piano notes make it seem lighter and more ambient, and while the chorus is a little tired there are sparks of reinvention here and there. His vocals are suitably high-pitched and bright and the track completes the EP in resolute, memorable fashion.

Inevitable is a finely polished time out, rendered with a firm eye on class and appeal. Its sleek tracks are engaging and rewarding, their frequent changes in style ensuring that the EP remains interesting and dynamic despite the short running time. Pending the next studio album, due next year, this provides a sumptuous bookmark for fans.

SCORE: 8/10
Review written by Grace Duff

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James Shotwell

James Shotwell is the founder of Under The Gun Review. He loves writing about music and movies almost as much as he loves his two fat cats. He's also the co-founder of Antique Records and the Marketing Coordinator for Haulix. You should probably follow him on Twitter.

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