By shelz.

The Foreign Exchange may still be basking in the glow of their Grammy nod for Leave It All Behind’s “Day Keeper,” but you wouldn’t know.  The duo has been hard at work crafting the follow up to one of the best albums of 2008.  The pressure is probably there in spades, though.  Following up that type of critical acclaim isn’t easy.

The best way to find out is to hit the masses with some new music and see if anything sticks.  The pair has done just that and off the rip they have a winner. “Maybe She’ll Dream of Me,” is the kind of smooth electro soul that adds a maturity to Nicolay and Phonte’s work.  It’s old school in spirit, modern in construction and as always, beautiful to listen to.

The production is uncomplicated but Nicolay has a great ear for detail. A stuttering drum plays host to simple digital streaks, some background atmosphere and a great mid tempo bassline.  The track doesn’t deviate from the opening much.  There’s a bit of piano tinkering at the end thanks to Zo! but the foundation is clean and unfussy.

Phonte’s story is about a young lady who manages to merge outer and inner beauty into an undeniable combination that makes men do whatever to keep her in their circle.  He knows she is out of his league but he still hopes when she rests her head at night, he creeps into her dreams. His voice is delicate but honest and the vocal layering gives him strength he can’t pull off without assistance. There is a rapped verse, perfect for those who were a little bummed about the lack of Phonte flows on Leave It All Behind.  This is a very, very pretty song.

So friends and fans of The Foreign Exchange need to get amped.  If “Maybe She’ll Dream of Me” is any indication of what their upcoming release Authenticity is about, then we are in for yet another great album.

The Foreign Exchange – “Maybe She’ll Dream of Me”

The-Foreign-Exchange-Maybe-Shell-Dream-Of-Me

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