Factor: Lawson Graham

By Kate Xian

Canadian hip hop producer Factor follows up his 2008 album Chandelier with an ode to his grandfather, Lawson Graham. Even borrowing from grandaddy's stash of photos for the cover, Factor's 18 track album is clearly a labour of love. Factor does what many out there are failing to do: blend the hip hop sound with that of the humming underground alternative scene. This hybrid blend is both ethereal and foot stomping at the same time.

With so much to choose from, Lawson Graham has a powerhouse of tracks and I hate using the term 'epic,' but really, Living in a Vaccuum is just that. Reminiscent of the highly undervalued K-Os, More Than Love is one of our top tracks for its ridiculously catchy tune. Oh Oh Andy is also a fun take on the old 60's pop rock spunk and PopStravaganza is another highlight.

And we can't not mention They Don't Know, another tune with a catchy melody and a lyrical ironic-ness to it. Pooling from his large rolodex of emcees, Factor utilizes his friends expertly creating a lush and diverse album that never bores.

Though a tad lengthy, overall Lawson Graham is a gorgeous, gorgeous album that comes out on top.

Release Date: May 18, 2010