Album Review: AB & Daru – A Work In Progress (2009)

Album Review: AB & Daru – A Work In Progress  (2009)
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 Potholes

It is not often that an r&b album can blend neo-soul, r&b, funk, and fine touches from various other genres and not sound either horribly confusing or horribly formulaic. AB & Daru have crafted a solid debut (although they’ve been working together for years) with 2009’s A Work In Progress. The title stems from the fact that AB & Daru are the latest of many who have joined the growing trend of internet-crafted albums (See: Exchange, Foreign). A Work In Progress has AB as the singer, and Daru as the drummer and producer. One very refreshing element of this album is its usage of live instrumentation, which assists the homegrown, organic vibe that the duo puts forth. Lofty keyboards and pianos are driven home by pounding drums and precise harmonizing vocals. The content of the songs remains true to the music as well. A homage to their Detroit roots (“Home featuring 13 and Drastic”) is a stand out track full of love for their people and city.

Rooted in the mid-west, AB & Daru has a sound similar to PPP or Slum Village. This should come as no surprise since AB & Daru have both spent time touring with Slum Village performing as their band. In fact, Elzhi and T3 even offer verses on consecutive tracks on A Work In Progress. Fellow Detroit native, Black Milk, also lends a hand on the impressive “On Deck” where the content revolves around the rise of AB & Daru and their intentions to remain grounded. This track, talking about progression and moving in the right direction, is somewhat indicative of the album, which is true to its title. AB & Daru have a solid understanding of where they are, and where they are heading and they recognize their room to grow. Still, A Work In Progress is an ambitious and successful debut.