If imitation is the highest form of praise, then Roots Manuva can reap a good chunk of the stuff. It is undeniable that there are strong similarities between to Jo'Leon Davenue (aka J.O.D) and Roots Manuva. They both have a certain cadence and inflection of accent, one that originally marked Roots Manuva as a unique voice on the hip hop scene. Any person who knows their hip hop from their crap-rap can pinpoint Manuva's voice, and it may seem unfortunate that Davenue has such a comparable delivery. Yet I think this Londoner may be able to use it his advantage, because the similarities should not put you off the album: it is enjoyable and entertaining.

Mellow Defiance: an apt name for such an album. Jo'Leon Davenue is either very clever or very lucky. The album grows on you, maybe even against first judgement. You have to keep listening to it. Put it on in the background, listen to it or scrutinise it bar by bar, but eventually it will latch on and there it sticks. The clever and interesting title of Mellow Defiance: a definition of mood lends expectancy; it cannot be your standard affair of below par hip hop. There is a sense of the ironic '…and yes I'm basic, but shall I suggest, basic gets you pay cheques…'

The production is on point, and the album has many different sounds for the discerning listener: Café Cloud 9 (999) is great if you love funky house. The Soul Lucian and Home Sweet Home will be enjoyed by people who love neo-soul and hip hop, plus he's added some jazz tips, RnB and more. You will not get bored listening to this album, because Davenue has sucessfully showcased his poetic talents.

Words by WordSmith

For more on Jo'Leon visit his MySpace @ http://www.myspace.com/joleondavenue

The voting finally opened today for the Orange Unsigned Act 2008 which is a nationwide competition to find the best unsigned musical talent within the UK. Every day voters can log onto http://www.orangeunsignedact.co.uk and vote 3 times. The 25 acts with the most votes come end of September will go through to the final auditions.

UKSoul.Org is backing Kyra Simone and Sante so we really need your daily vote.

To vote for Kyra Simone please visit http://orangeunsignedact.co.uk/acts/....

To vote for Sante please visit http://orangeunsignedact.co.uk/acts/....

We thank you in advance for your vote.

UK Soul Team

Hil St Soul is a name analogous with confident and enjoyable music. Gratefully, the new album 'Black Rose' doesn't disappoint old and new fans alike. Dulcet tones and knowledgeable lyrics intermixed with definitive production allows for an amazing studio album that is a joy to listen to and keep on replay.

There's something refreshing about Hilary Mwelwa's unyielding ability to blend classical and soulful vocals, yet we cannot give her all the credit. Even though Mwelwa is the face of Hil St. Soul, their amazing albums have been a collaboration of her singing and the talented production of Victor Redwood Sawyerr (founder of Blak Twang). The album leaves more than just a musical impression, it presents a positive message.

If you like India Irie and Jill Scott you'll like Hil St. Soul.