“Ugly Duck” is a charming album that echoes the sounds reminiscent of Steve Lacy and Omar Apollo, yet it stands on its own merits. The soft, velvety vocals harmonize seamlessly with the bass guitars and vibrant drums in the production. While some moments might feel lackluster and easily forgotten, I don’t perceive this album as inherently bad. Admittedly, it doesn’t strike me as extraordinary either, but it carries an indescribable summery vibe.
Personally, I find the first half more captivating than the latter. Its composition and execution are more intriguing to me. With a concise runtime of 25 minutes, the album’s brevity contributes to my enjoyment; it’s a condensed burst of vibe that doesn’t overstay its welcome or succumb to an excess of tracks. “Ugly Duck” serves as a perfect album to spin casually while engaged in work or basking in the late afternoon sunlight.
Standout Tracks: “Front Desk,” “To be, or not to be ugly,” “The Mannequin Song”
