By shelz.

Ryan Leslie is a really smart man.  He received his degree from the hallowed halls of Harvard before his mom could take the training wheels off his bike and since then he has devoted that massive brain of his to creating the perfect sonic storm.  The diversity of his talent is hard to match and his work ethic is the stuff music legends are made of.  As a matter of fact, he’s so intent on creating that he managed to drop his sophomore effort, Transition, a mere nine months after his self-titled debut.  Impressive.

Listening to Transition makes a few things very clear.  Leslie is a master of production.  He knows what fits with what and how to layer different sounds wonderfully. He understands understated elegance as well.  His less is more foundations eliminate all of that phonic busyness some producers fall prey to.  Also, he is, or possibly was, in love with a woman who managed to inspire 11 tracks (14 if you have the deluxe edition) of the myriad of feelings new affection can bring.

However, there is a problem.  This album is synthesized to within an inch of its life. Everybody loves a good helping of synth, but song after song of it can be a bit monotonous.  Especially since the songs are similar in pace and sound. There is also a lack of passion in Ryan Leslie’s performances which strikes me as odd considering this album is allegedly based on a true story.  There is nothing horrible on this release.  Leslie pieces his parts together with the precision of a master musical architect and that may also serve as his downfall. His music tends to be overwrought with thought and the fire is left somewhere on the side of the road. That filter that erases the emotion leaves this album in a very bland state.

The introduction is strong.  “Never Gonna Break Up” is an articulated yearning for that perfect girl and a pledge to keep her around if he ever finds her.  Next is “Something That I Like.”  Honestly, the sound of the keys reminds me of my kids plug in piano.  The progression of the chords on the chorus is smooth and enjoyable, but Leslie raps on this song.  And well, he shouldn’t.  Pusha T picks up Leslie’s slack on the lyrical tip but it’s too little too late. After that comes “Zodiac.”  Even though “Zodiac” has a funkier edge complete with a real live bass, it’s at this point you realize there may not be much diversity of sound on Transition.  Again, it’s an alright song but the astrological concept has been overdone and Leslie adds nothing new to the pantheon of “what’s your sign” incarnations. Then he raps again. Sigh.

Bright spots are in the mix though. “Is it Real Love” fits tightly into this love story concept Leslie has going on.  His voice is heavenly and sits perfectly atop the light airy track. “Sunday Night” is nicely arranged dreamy track and Leslie’s smooth voice is great against it. “You’re Not My Girl swings back to the retro funk with a nice bassline intro and a great chorus.  It’s perfect for a little grown folks two step around the dance floor.  “Guardian Angel” is a sweet ode to that moment of realization that a certain person makes you happy and it’s a beautiful song

The rest is generally forgettable.  The songs may not be bad, but either they sound like the rest of the album or have no discernable spark, hence they do nothing more than go in one ear and out the other. Is it good?  Only if you are a diehard Ryan Leslie fan and want more of what you found on his first album.  If you are looking for a reason to convert, unfortunately you won’t find it on Transition.

 2.75 out of 5

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