Reading Time: 2 min read

3.5 out of 5 stars

Alex Aiono, Work the Middle © InterscopeAlex Aiono is ready for primetime with his major label debut single, “Work the Middle.” He’s a potential superstar.   

Alex Aiono is a beast.  He’s known for his incredible covers and mashups on YouTube.  As awesome as his performances are via the computer screen, clearly, his talent deserves wider recognition. Perhaps now is the time for the 21-year old.  Interscope thought so – Kid has potential written all over his face.  The looks don’t hurt either, particularly given the oft-shallow nature of industry.  Aiono drops an original, major label debut single, “Work the Middle.”

Like his vocal prowess on YouTube, Aiono continues to show off his superb set of pipes. Pop, particularly gimmicky, modern pop, doesn’t always showcase the full breadth of vocals.  Despite the hyper drums and tropically-driven pop production, there is no vocal sacrifice.  Furthermore, Alex is able to infuse personality and swagger.  “Work the Middle” isn’t the second coming in regards to songwriting or production, but it’s respectable by all means.

Prudently, sex the is the modus operandi. Aiono never crosses the line and never even mentions the three-letter word, but clearly, this is meant to be suggestive.  Work is the go-to innuendo for the act – ask Fifth Harmony or Rihanna. Even so, he keeps it classy.


Final Thoughts

All in all, “Work the Middle” is an enjoyable record.  It is well produced and keeps the youthful and adult audiences in mind.  This isn’t the second coming, but it is a solid introduction to a potential superstar.

3.5 out of 5 stars


Alex Aiono • “Work the Middle” • Interscope • Release: 1.27.17
Photo Credits: Interscope

 

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the musical hype

the musical hype aka Brent Faulkner has earned Bachelor and Masters degrees in music (music Education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and a freelance music journalist. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.

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