V/A - Foresight

Casual Records' new compilation Foresight is self-described as grassroots music from a collection of artists scattered across the urban music board. Representing from across the UK to Amsterdam, Casual attempt to bring some of the freshest artists from the scene to the attention of those of us who don't spend countless hours searching through monotonous MySpace pages, scouring various venues for sub-par open mic nights or show up late for gigs and miss a memorable supporting act. Songs such as Bigger Than Us from The Heard and Somewhere 2 Go by Miss Camille typify all that is organic about British Soul. Foresight has plenty of rapping for the hip-hop heads, but rarely is it tolerable and tends to be difficult to digest. One shining moment comes from the social commentary found on Libation by Black Britanyaa which features renowned soul crooner Omar. Casual Records' inability to find a balance is their only flaw for what is to be an exciting future brand of music. [Omar Jenning]