Gotta be buzzin' to like this

Shwayze has coined himself as the only black kid in his hometown of Malibu, Calif., and the breezy rapper wants everyone to know that the “Cali” lifestyle he’s perfected on his MTV show “Buzzin’” is the only true way to live. And his self-titled debut album is an exact personification of that way of life, full of silky-smooth tunes ready for the beach. “Roamin’” serves as a mantra of his credo: living it up, smoking weed, drinking and mingling with the ladies all day long.  
Seriously, what more could life offer?

On the album, Shwayze teams up with his “Buzzin’” co-star Cisco Adler (who produces and provides vocals and guitar) of Whitestarr for several songs, including the extremely catchy and aptly titled “Buzzin’.” The track takes the listener to a ragin’ block party where Shwayze meets loads of gorgeous females.

The only problem with the album is that Shwayze and Adler continuously paint the same scene featuring sexy girls and booze throughout, without any diversity. The lyrics are only slightly altered, and few themes beyond drugs, alcohol and girls are introduced during the album’s 11 tracks. The lack of diversity in the songs leads the two to rely on their one lyrical gimmick and minor TV-star status to stay relevant.

Shwayze’s tracks wouldn’t be a horrible addition to any summer beach mix tape, but listening to the entire album is a bit of a repetitive chore. It’s clear that having a TV show doesn’t necessarily equate to having much talent whatsoever, even if Shwayze would like you to think differently.

Although trying to embrace all that summer has to offer is magical when the sun’s out, what happens when November rolls around? This album features a cool, smooth sound, but the truth is, Shwayze is not much more than the seasonal fad.