Irv Da PHENOM is the epitome of the quintessential BIG LOVER. The 16-track body of work is a fusion of R&B that cuts through different eras from the 90s to date with a touch of rap.  He also doesn’t shy from being a sex symbol, an attribute he displays throughout the project.

Irv Da PHENOM takes huge steps on this project and doesn’t leave any stone unturned as he dives right into the business with the Westcoast funk-styled “Nothin’ Ordinary”. he embodies the energy of the proverbial Big Lover who brings nothing but joy to his lover. The chorus is catchy and it’s reminiscent of 90s R&B with a modern unique vibe. Next is “4 Real 4 Real”, a bouncy hip-hop-infused jam that sees Irv teaming with WESTSIDE BOOGIE and the result is a smooth head-nodding anthem for all the ride-or-die chicks out there. Irv ties the tracks with a handful of interludes that showcase his status as a man with a mission. these interludes designated as ACTs often show up to add some depth to his persona.

The tracks “Makin Love” featuring Kevin Church Johnson and “Taste” are quintessential sultry R&B deep cuts that channel Irv’s spirit as a lover who is ready to go the extra mile to please. he ramps it up on the sensual “Soul Ties’ which details the true meaning of being connected to his lover’s soul and the intertwined emotions that make the connection deeper.  This is followed by “Me On Me” a bright bouncy jam that shares a tale about a lady with the right game and doesn’t take shorts or losses. She throws Irv for a loop but regardless he recognizes her game and extends her the much-needed respect.

“Can’t Let You Go” sees Irv in reflective mode as he looks deep at a past love and how he keeps thinking about this lady. He interpolates the classic Case song “Missing You” and reinterprets it in his unique way. He confesses his wrongdoings and sends a heartfelt apology with the hopes he will be forgiven. The outpour of emotions continues with “Long Way Down”, a modern future-soul-infused cut that sees Irv pleading to his lover not to break his heart. In “Keep Bleeding”, he sings about self-love and the pain that comes with unrequited love. He employs a melodic rap flow with a touch of soul-gripping melodic runs as he reflects on the emotional trauma he suffered from his ex.

The final tracks “Loving ME” and “Pa$$ports” help bring the project full circle. The latter employs a hard-hitting but familiar beat as its backdrop and it is a display of Irv’s vivid lyricism about finding love within and being the best man he could ever be. “Pa$$ports” is Irv’s final statement as he comes into his own as a young man making moves and finding success with his art and love. Over a lush and dreamy soundscape, he juxtaposes his not-so-glorious past with his present state of wealth and happiness.

Overall, BIG LOVER sure ticks all the boxes concerning R&B and the art of love. Irv sounds inspired on all the tracks and brings out his A-game with his distinct and ear-grabbing melodies and commanding vocals. On the flip side, he is an adept rapper as well and holds his own on a couple of tracks where he displays this skill set.