Melanogenesis is the first volume of a collection of songs, dreams, and memories spanning the length of time since we first began in 1994. It includes both old and new recordings that up until now, have largely never been heard by the general public. The album features the talents of Osirika, Faith Williams, singer and keyboardist Darrius Willrich, Bassist/Producer/Sound Engineer Bubba Jones, MC K-Dueski from 5E, and more. Stand out track Leave The Streets features vocalist Faith Williams and was originally recorded in 1997, but recently restored and given new life by producer Jeremiah Williams. It's a gritty tail of a woman's undying love for a young gentleman who is torn between the lust for street life and the heart's call for tender romance. It's a perfect blend of grittiness and sensuality, offering hope for those caught in the struggle. Leave The Streets pays homage to the street sensibilities of Mobb Deep by opening with the voice sample, 'you're all alone in these streets cousin' from the classic Shook Ones Part II. The hard-hitting stop-and-go drum rhythm weaves you in and out of a haunting concrete lullaby, while Faith's realness and feminine mystique massage the hardened wounds of the streets into sweet songs of strength and forgiveness. Her voice captivates from the start begging the question, 'were you aware the streets do not care?'. Instrumental track Luminescence is a smooth, slow-brewed, bass driven, jazz inspired delight that features the syrupy keyboards of Seattle soul superstar Darrius Willrich. It's an enchanting piece of music that waxes and wains to a Stevie Wonder vocal sample that seductively whispers, 'ouuuuu candy...alright...ohh yeah.' Luminescence is midnight music and sets the perfect mood to make that long anticipated move towards waking up with lovely company lying next to you. Crowns & Kings is an instant Hip Hop classic that begins with an ominous percussion loop and a basement beat box that slowly ascends into royal atmosphere. MC Willy Stylez catches inspiration from a slowed down Chaka Khan sample and relives an 'I Feel For You' moment by chanting, 'Chaka Khan let me rock it to you' before delivering the opening verse. Willy Stylez emphatically let's the audience know that he's been a king in pauper's clothing with his line, 'Black regal stand royal with a tarnished crown/from doin dirt in my past kept my garments brown.'
