A fast-rising producer/MC from the Bay Area, Kero One first emerged with the impressive 12-inch single "Check the Blueprints" in 2003, self-released on his own Plug Label. Awash in jazzy organ vamps, George Benson-smooth guitar riffs, and ultra-mellow drums, his debut full-length Windmills of the Soul followed shortly thereafter, further showcasing his gift for laid back grooves and low-key, down-to-earth rhymes. On Early Believers, he successfully avoids the sophomore slump, with another collection of easily digestible, earthy hip-hop overflowing with good vibes. The lead single "Welcome to the Bay" focuses on hometown pride, while "When the Sunshine Comes" (featuring Ben Westbeech) is classic storytelling rap, relating the tale of a girl, a guy, their love affair, breakup, her near death experience, and the inevitable reunion. Kero's perpetually chillaxed vocal approach is solid if a bit bland, but his production prowess (and that of co-conspirator King Most) is on point throughout, keeping things interesting by flirting with multiple genres, including Latin, electro, and "future soul."