An authentic look into the life of the West London artist...
Finn Foxell’s first album ‘MAMA’S BOY’ arrives like a refreshing breath in a crowded space. It exudes confidence without being ostentatious, and is emotionally transparent without falling into clichés. The growth of the West London artist is evident not only in the lyrics but also in the album’s flow, rich with personal insights that feel like snippets from a late-night conversation with an old friend.
Foxell has long been regarded as one of the UK’s most subtly thrilling talents—an artist navigating the realms of rap, grime, and soul, and refusing to be confined. Through previous releases and collaborations with Elevation Meditation, he has established a reputation for his raw honesty and genre-defying sound. ‘MAMA’S BOY’ feels like a logical culmination of his efforts: a collection of work that doesn’t just allude to his influences but integrates them into something distinctly his own.
Right from the start, it’s evident that Foxell is steering the album in a new direction, with dreamy guitars, unconventional drum patterns, and soothing soulful textures. The opening track ‘MAMA’S BOY’ feels like a therapy session shared publicly. Foxell contemplates his upbringing, feelings of not belonging, carving out his own space, and discovering his purpose, all while showcasing his personality and humor through his delivery.
Songs like ‘ALIVE’ highlight Finn’s skill in blending spoken word with melodic undertones—drawing you in, while ‘EASIER’, one of the earlier singles from the album, resonates more as a quiet centerpiece in the album rather than a standalone anthem. Through these tracks, Foxell has crafted a distinctive sound.
More vigor is present in tracks like ‘SNATCH’ where Foxell fully embraces his playful side—energetic, bouncy, and unafraid to express himself. The guitar riff adds a grunge element to the record, complementing Finn’s rapid-fire delivery. ‘INSIDE OUT’ is another highlight, delivering a hazy vibe with significant emotional weight. Finn reveals his heartbreak through his vocals, concluding with a reassuring voice note from his Dad. ‘GASPING’ conveys a contemplative aura, offering a weighty reflection that serves as the perfect conclusion to the themes explored throughout ‘MAMA’S BOY’.
There’s a sense of rawness here, but it’s not harsh. Every choice on ‘MAMA’S BOY’ feels intentional. It’s an album that doesn’t strive too hard to make a statement, and as a result, it communicates a great deal. More akin to a home video than a polished feature, ‘MAMA’S BOY’ is notable for its authenticity. It doesn’t seek attention—it invites you in. Once you’re in, it’s hard not to linger.
7/10
Words: Joe Hale
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Finn Foxell's first album, 'MAMA’S BOY,' arrives like a refreshing breath of air in a hectic environment. It exudes confidence without being ostentatious and offers emotional openness without