Zel? – Now and Forever (Mixtape Review)

Zel? delivers a fearless performance, pouring his heart out in the pop-infused “Now and Forever.”

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TOP 3

3. I Get Around

The rebellious nature of “I Get Around” makes it one of the most enjoyable listens on this project.

I’m so glad Zel? kicked off this project with “I Get Around.” Right from the start, it sets the tone by showcasing his cool demeanor, his ability to dive into beachy, uptempo instrumentals, and his knack for crafting infectious melodies. As the mixtape progresses, Zel? gets more adventurous, but this track is undoubtedly the one that establishes the vibe.

For me, this is the only song on the mixtape that blends hip-hop and pop influences seamlessly.

2. The One I Trust

There’s nothing more powerful than putting your trust in someone who has your back.

“The One I Trust” is a vibrant celebration of love. The upbeat, lively instrumental drives Zel?’s colorful melodies and lyrics, which center around being head over heels for someone who knows how to make you feel on top of the world. Ultimately, this is one of those feel-good, summery tracks that are perfect for cruising with your windows down and your special someone by your side.

1. I’m Sorry

It’s easy to get lost in the words, vibes, and instrumental of “I’m Sorry.”

Even though “I’m Sorry” features somewhat somber lyrics—where Zel? sings about not being able to satisfy his partner despite his lavish efforts—the song overall has a very jovial sound. The upbeat instrumental, hypnotizing melodies, and bold vocals all create a lively atmosphere. In fact, there’s nothing Zel? should be sorry about when it comes to this track.

I remember the good old days when I wasn’t man enough to say, “I’m sorry.”

SONG-BY-SONG RATING

1. I Get Around (3/5)

2. Keep Playin (3/5)

3. I’m Sorry (4/5)

4. All I Got (3/5)

5. Thinkin Bout U (Interlude) (N/A)

6. The One I Trust (3/5)

7. Live Or Die (3/5)

8. Passion (2/5)

9. Dreaming In Madness (3/5)

RGM RATING

(D-) (60%)

I’ve always admired an artist who shows no fear on the mic and stays true to themselves in every lyric they drop. After listening to Zel?’s Now and Forever project, I’m convinced that he’s one of those artists who fully embraces both of these qualities.

The first thing I love about this mixtape is the instrumentals. They exude great vibes, are radiant, and definitely give off smooth summertime feels. Even without Zel? saying a word, the production makes you feel like you’re cruising through the city on a sunny day. I’d rate the production an A.

The second thing I appreciate is the content. Zel? does an excellent job of exposing his vulnerable side, tackling the highs and lows of modern dating. I feel like every young bachelor or person in a relationship can relate to his reflections on love and life in this mixtape. He also has a bit of a trill side that comes through, especially on the first track.

While I don’t totally love the vocal performances (it was a little too auto-tuned at times), I do admire Zel?’s boldness when it comes to singing. Throughout Now and Forever, he experiments with daring melodies and hits vocal pitches that go even higher than Wiz Khalifa’s. Honestly, if more artists were as fearless as Zel?, we’d get a lot more experimental projects.

Now and Forever has arrived just in time for the peak of summer!