Irv Da Phenom

Facebook, Twitter and hotel-lobby coffee are starting to feel like the only complimentary comforts left these days. Thanks to Irv Da Phenom, though, we can add one more freebie to our lives: a whopping 15-track effort from the singer and rapper. Free hits listeners with the sultry attitude that made his last effort, American Idol Reject, a veritable coming-out party for the young artist. Like a two-sport athlete, Irv is equally at ease when he’s rhyming and when he’s hitting the high notes. Crooning and rapping, Irv drawls his way through each track with inspired lyrics, impassioned delivery and the type of hungry confidence required to endure the musical grind. Free follows up a rash of Irv’s guest spots on albums by several other local artists (including Tech N9ne). Craig Smith, Stik Figa, Nesto the Owner, and Greg Enemy are among those returning the favor here.