Spins: Album reviews

Paul Dateh – Paul Dateh

Artist: Paul Dateh
Title: Paul Dateh
Label: Independent
Genre: Soul/R&B/Pop

Paul Dateh is more a musical act than a literary one. If one were to categorize the array of compositions found in his self-titled album, “Be More” would encapsulate this. Dateh is a deliberate counterpart to soulful hip-hop violinist Miri Ben-Airi, with a lyrical cadence similar to that of Jason Mraz. His ability to integrate classical training with modern progressions makes this album a promising debut. Songs like “Untitled” and “Celtic Blues” highlight his purposeful arrangements as a violinist, while “Who Knew” is a sweet track that incorporates contemporary elements synonymous with doo-wop. Not much different than what you might expect to hear at a live performance, the album exudes an almost unpolished and improvisational tone.

However, lyrical content appears to be of secondary importance to Dateh. His lyrics behave more as a compliment to the instrumentals than the other way around; playing as background noise rather than the focal point from which he conveys his sound. Though his range is somewhat limited, he is able to deliver, demonstrating a fluidity that captures the listeners attention. And yet, something is always amiss, so close but never strong enough to bridge that intangible divide; perpetually teetering between frustrating and unremarkable. Occasionally good, but never great.

There are many moments where one might spend waiting for the right elements to connect, while endlessly falling short of uncovering anything substantive. Songs like ‘Whatever I Choose To Do’, and ‘Goes Around’ are lackluster and one dimensional. His track, ‘Strong’, though in many ways provocative, is rarely colored with genuine expression. Whether because of the simplicity of it’s content, or his inability to truly emote, Dateh appears visibly removed, never allowing the listener to delve into what he’s really about.

Nevertheless, it would be wrong to suggest that Dateh is anything but a notable artist. ‘Without You Here’ is the album’s most promising song, and in many ways his saving grace. It’s beautiful composition showcases Dateh’s abilities as both a musician and a song writer, and at best, establishes him as an up-and-coming artist.

For all of it’s faults there is something here for everyone. Though Dateh identifies as a hip-hop violinist, the album does not appear to reflect many of the elements that individualizes itself as a hip-hop album. Contemporary soul and pop, yes; hip-hop, no. And yet, his ability to incorporate a multitude of genres into his developing sound, opens himself to a world of possibilities. For many artists lyrical content is the foundation of great music. It coalesces the experience from artist to individual, transcending psychological and emotional barriers. Such a skill cannot be taught, and for it is innate part of the human condition. Once Dateh can connect those essential dots and place as much emphasis on his words as he does with his sound, only then will be begin to come into his own.

-Elizabeth Ubides (courtesy LA Music Project)

PaulDateh.com

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