The fiercely independent, Idaho-raised rapper nick! channels a deeply overstimulated, restless frequency on his new EP, "GEEKED!". Born in 2006 and building a fervent following entirely without industry co-signs, he occupies an interesting lane in new-wave underground hip-hop. His music sounds precisely like the brain chemistry of an internet-raised creative processing the blinding speed of newfound success. He writes and produces melodic, hard-hitting rap...

As he prepares to release his upcoming album "Afrikan Boy," it's only natural that he dishes up some fresh calming, and engaging songs. He understands his role and executes it flawlessly. The 23-year-old Montreal singer/songwriter is offering a great 10-track album that combines Afrobeats with an unexpected injection of R&B, dancehall, and kompa, with the result likely to be a dynamic and fascinating blend that...