With producers and writers such as Pharrell, The MIDI Mafia, Stargate, Frank Ocean and Scott Thomas, it was hard for the British hit-maker, Conor Maynard, not to have a well-rounded debut album with a fine mix of soul into dub-step, club R&B and pop.

The subject matter of Contrast ranges from heartbreak, break-ups to the pursuit of his lady targets. His voice is reminiscent of a younger Justin Timberlake in his glory ‘N SYNC days, but fails to deliver the same melting falsetto in Pictures that Timberlake is known for.

His phrasing over the almost Caribbean beat in Another One leaves nothing desired and surprisingly sits comfortably on the song. He all-in-all delivers a pretty impressive vocal whether it is smooth legato or a stiff staccato. As for being compared to Justin Bieber, Connor far surpasses him on this album in terms of musicality, but for now will have to bear the reign of ‘Bieber Mania’.

Songs worth listening to: Animal, Can’t Say No, Mary Go Round, Take Off, Another One, Glass Girl and Better Than You. 3/5.

Contrast tracklist
1. Animal
2. Turn Around ft. Ne-Yo
3. Vegas Girl

4. Can’t Say No

5. Lift Off ft. Pharrell
6. Mary Go Round
7. Take Off
8. Better Than You ft. Rita Ora
9. Another One
10. Pictures
11. Glass Girl
12. Just In Case
13. Take Off

Review by T.E.D.D. (no Y).