Artistik Approach is a phenomenal trio made up of Siphne Sylve, Jonah Westbrook, and Brandon Tolson. The multi-talented crew—their songs combine singing, rhyming, and beatboxing—formed at the Memphis College of Art. What also makes them unique is, in the words of Biz Markie, that they “make the music with their mouth”.  They are a completely self-contained, highly creative force. On The First Steps, Artistik Approach has recorded a few songs to educate those who are unaware of their “approach”.

The first track is called “Freestyle”. Brandon and Siphne provide the “beat”, while Jonah rhymes. Jonah keeps listeners drawn in with lines like “Menace, I give ‘em paper cuts when I push the envelope….try not to overdose on my quotes”.  The track feels natural and organic, and…well, free.  Track 2 is an original song “Because of You”.  This track is so infectious and dares you to resist the urge to move, especially when the hook is uttered: “I feel like I can do a flip three times in the air (in the air) because of you/And baby boo, whenever we’re together you know they always stop and stare (stop and stare) you know it’s true”. Jonathan and Brandon trade lines about the excitement of love while Siphne demonstrates her fantastic beatbox abilities. “Let Me Go” is another track that is an instant party-starter. Siphne sings the hook, and Brandon unleashes clever lyrics such as “Trying to toy with the boy, look I’m not Hasbro/Tired of me telling you that play school is canceled”.  The fourth track is called “Mr.Rogers”. This track is a very funky reinterpretation of the classic Mr. Rogers tune “It’s a Good Feeling”.  Somewhere in heaven, Fred Rogers is smiling and nodding his head while wearing his favorite cardigan. The last two tracks are covers, but to even use the word cover is a disservice to the creative and exciting reinterpretations of “Summertime” and “God Bless the Child” Similar to their revamping of Mr. Rogers’ song, the trio breathe new life into these classic songs, creating versions that may one day rival the original compositions.

Artistik Approach is a fresh, young, vibrant group that is truly unique and demands the attention of the listener. Their original compositions and their reinterpretations of classic songs catch one’s ear and leave you wanting an encore. As exciting as they are on record, however, their live performance equals or surpasses that feeling. Artistik Approach has a unique voice and they are definitely artists to watch out for.

The First Steps is available at Artistik Approach's their live events. You can contact them on their Facebook page and at artistikapproach.blogspot.com