Nearly Straight by Chlothegod | Review
Chlothegod's debut EP, "Nearly Straight," is a captivating musical journey that seamlessly fuses elements of neo-soul and punk. Released on October 13, 2023, this EP serves as a testament to her remarkable talent in crafting a distinct sound. Crafting an artful fusion of electrifying pop-punk anthems, guitars bathed in ethereal reverb, and velvety R&B melodies, Chlothegod's music stands out as a unique creation that evokes a profound sense of nostalgia.
Chlothegod's debut EP, "Nearly Straight," is a captivating musical journey that seamlessly fuses elements of neo-soul and punk. Released on October 13, 2023, this EP serves as a testament to her remarkable talent in crafting a distinct sound. Crafting an artful fusion of electrifying pop-punk anthems, guitars bathed in ethereal reverb, and velvety R&B melodies, Chlothegod's music stands out as a unique creation that evokes a profound sense of nostalgia.
The EP showcases Chlothegod's remarkable lyrical skill, offering introspective lyrics that provide a window into her personal experiences and emotions, fostering an environment for the exploration of intricate feelings. They invite the listener to engage in self-reflection while maintaining an optimistic and empowering undertone, especially evident in tracks like "My Bad, My Fault." The catchy upbeat tempo on creates a carefree atmosphere for Chlothegod to addresses personal accountability while maintaining an aura of optimism, making this track truly commendable.
"UGOMDN" immerses its audience in a blend of nostalgia and contemporary funk. Chlothegod's emotive lyrics and vocal delivery create a sense of familiarity yet remain refreshingly innovative. The fusion of funk and soul elements adds depth to the track, making it a standout piece within the EP. The infectious rhythm and Chlothegod's commanding vocals on the lead single “Camille” truly set the tone for blends of sonic energy throughout the project.
Additionally, it should be noted her voice is a powerful instrument that weaves through each track with both emotional depth and an infectious energy. It's not just the melodies but the delivery and passion behind them that leave a lasting impact. Her vocal performance is versatile, adapting effortlessly to the different moods and genres explored in the EP.
Chlothegod has crafted a mesmerizing debut EP that transcends genre boundaries and delivers a musical experience that's both introspective and energetic. Her unique fusion of pop-punk, soulful R&B, and heartfelt lyrics sets the stage for a journey through personal experiences and emotions. 'Nearly Straight' is an unforgettable musical statement that firmly establishes Chlothegod as a rising talent in the music industry.
THEGUUDS w/ LĒA THE LEOX, Amaya Santos, House of EL, Hadji Gaviota, Ashoka & femdot.
LĒA THE LEOX - “Purpose”
Lea the LEOX is a Los Angeles-based acoustic R&B singer whose latest single "Purpose" is a reflection of her self-discovery journey. The gentle, intricate string arrangements create a dreamy atmosphere that perfectly complements Lea's soulful vocals. In "Purpose," Lea sings about accepting and embracing herself, realizing that her purpose in life is not just about achieving accolades, but rather stems from a deeper sense of love and connection with her family. The single is the second and title track of Lea's highly anticipated debut EP, also titled "Purpose." Her first single "When You're Lonely," released in January, gives listeners a glimpse into the introspective and emotional world of her music. With her heartfelt lyrics and smooth melodies, Lea the LEOX is definitely an artist to watch in the world of acoustic R&B.
Amaya Santos - “Better”
Amaya Santos, a talented artist based in New York, has released a powerful song called "Better" that encourages listeners to let go of toxic relationships and prioritize self-love and self-care. Her vocal performance on this track is exceptional, with a soulful depth and silky smoothness that soothes the soul and inspires listeners to shed negativity from their lives. The production of "Better" is a beautiful blend of old-school R&B and modern pop elements. The drums provide a steady, strong beat that carries the song forward, while the instrumentation is both nostalgic and fresh. The melody is catchy, and the lyrics are relatable, making it a perfect singalong for anyone who has ever had to cut ties with someone who brought them down. Santos' voice can be compared to a flowing river that effortlessly carries the listener away, while the drums in the production can be likened to a beating heart that steadily pushes the song forward. "Better" is an exceptional track that showcases Santos' impressive vocal abilities and songwriting skills. Last year, Amaya Santos released two singles “Carousel” and “Dance with Danger.” We’re excited to see what else she has planned for the year!
House of EL - “Electric”
House of EL, an artist hailing from Northampton and also known as Kieron McIntosh, has shown his versatility and creativity by exploring new avenues of musical expression, including singing, songwriting, and production. His latest EP, titled "When It Rains It Pours," ensures a sonic journey that builds on his jazz and soul influences. One of the EP's standout tracks is "Electric," which blends jazz and soul elements into a simmering sonic stew. McIntosh's falsetto vocals glide over a melodic groove that is nothing short of irresistible, like the sun breaking through storm clouds on a summer afternoon. Layered percussion and woozy undertones add texture and depth to the track, creating a lush sonic landscape that invites listeners to immerse themselves in the music. With "When It Rains It Pours," McIntosh is poised to showcase his exceptional musicality and remind us of the power of music to transport and uplift us.
Ashoka & femdot. - “Questions”
Ashoka, a talented musician hailing from New York, has teamed up with femdot. for their latest musical project - a powerful collaboration entitled "Questions." On their latest track, Ashoka explores the internal battles between anxiety and depression, while using an lens of storytelling to present what’s been weighing heavy on his heart. Produced by the renowned Lucas Quinn, who has previously worked with Russ, the single channels a classic Alt-Hip Hop sound that takes cues from early-mid 2000s rap. Ashoka's unique delivery, characterized by his rhythmic cadence and introspective lyrics, shines on "Questions," making it a standout track in his repertoire. femdot., a rising star from Chicago who recently impressed audiences with his COLORS performance, adds to the song's appeal with his distinct style. His words are precise and short but, gets his point across thoroughly. In 2020, Ashoka dropped his debut album Through the Fire , which serves as a testament of Askoka’s evolving sound and growth as an musician. We’re excited to see what else he has planned for the year.
Hadji Gaviota - “boi”
Hadji Gaviota, a Queens NY native, has just released his latest single "Boi," showcasing his exceptional musical talent once again. The track features a vibrant and upbeat pop production, perfectly complementing Hadji's smooth and infectious vocals. With his distinct delivery style and impressive vocal range, Hadji effortlessly glides over the bouncy production, bringing the song to life. Frequent listeners will recognize his trademark humor and lightheartedness in the lyrics, making "Boi" a playful and enjoyable listen. As with his previous releases, it's highly likely that an accompanying music video will also be released, showcasing Hadji's dynamic visual flair. Hadji is expected to drop a new project that continues to highlight his musical abilities and charismatic personality.
Written by: Kha Akerson
THEGUUDS w/ Bert Knox, CONNIE, Ashli & Sufi Hamilton
Bert Knox & KADOLEAF - “best unsaid”
Brooklyn native Bert Knox teams up with DMV artist KADOLEAF for their latest sonic offering, “best unsaid.” Knox recently dropped a new project, a short story about love, ego & death, which displays a chronological depiction of finding self-love through the lenses of vices, relationships, and self-deprecation. The standout track featuring KADOLEAF tells a story of regret and despair while tempting to revive a love that’s run its course. Knox's writing is poetic but directed; he wears his heart on his sleeves but uses different textures to present his story. The production provided by tookhozy sets a perfect atmosphere for both musicians to explore unique flows and melodies. Bert Knox's latest project is a great addition to his evolving catalog. We’re excited to see what else he has planned for the future.
CONNIE - GS1 ft. Zelooperz
Rockford, IL producer CONNIE teams up with Detroit rapper Zelooperz for their latest single, “GS1.” CONNIE’s futuristic production, blended with Zelooperz’s nebulous cadences, creates a refreshing soundscape. This fusion of styles results in a thrilling and dynamic track that brings out the best of both artists. It’s crazy to think that this was a freestyle for Zelooperz. The energy in his delivery feels directed, and the quick-hit metaphors display his ability to communicate his thoughts vividly. On "GS1," CONNIE demonstrates his dedication to innovation and unpredictability in his production. The track perfectly exemplifies his ability to merge different styles and influences to create something new and exciting. CONNIE started his career working with close friend JELEEL! and landed a smashing hit, “DIVE IN.” Since then, he’s released music with Mike Dimes, Louis The Child, TiaCorine, Jabari Manwa & Merlyn Wood of BROCKHAMPTON, Greek, and more. We’re excited to see what else he has planned for the future.
Ashli - “Dance Again”
Ashli, who hails from Western Sydney, has released a disco-inspired single called "Dance Again", following her debut release. The song reflects her coming-of-age experiences and sentimentality in the music industry, conveying the desire for the enjoyable aspects of a relationship without the commitment that comes with it. The song opens with a plush percussive beat that provides clarity to the opening lyrics amidst the swirling synths. The track is a combination of house and R&B music, and its inspiration is evident throughout the soundscape. Ashli's talent for creating captivating melodies and lyrics is evident in the track, which could potentially launch her career to new heights. Last November, Ashli dropped a six-track EP, Only One, which is delightful display of the artist's unique blend of soulful vocals, introspective lyrics, and genre-bending production. We’re excited to hear what else she has planned for the near future.
Sufi Hamilton - “make sense”
Brooklyn based artist/producer Sufi Hamilton recently dropped his entrancing single “make sense.” The funk based production and Hamilton’s vocal experimentation ignites nostalgia, as if he’s recreating an time piece that has become cherished by many listeners of R&B. On his latest single, Hamilton reflects on a previous relationship and tries to find solace with the ending result. Hamilton’s writing is evocative, clearly painting a picture with his words and using an hazy cadence to evoke the emotion. The track was fully written and produced by the talented Brooklyn musician. Last year, Sufi Hamilton dropped two singles “Closer 2 U” and “Video Game.” Our eyes are glued for what else he has planned for this year!
Written by: Kha Akerson
THEGUUDS w/ KADOLEAF, OG MarlynMonROLLUP, hyejin, Whit., & MOIO
KADOLEAF - “MONA LISA”
DMV artist KADOLEAF kicks off the year with his latest hyper-punk but funky single, “MONA LISA,” produced by Tom Carrubba and Stats Nico. On his latest single, KADOLEAF explores the imbalances of meeting someone special through addiction. Through the use of upbeat production and ambient delivery, he deciphers the feeling of love while sober versus under the influence. The production exhibits energy and complements KADOLEAF’s indulging vocal experimentation. In shorter words, this song feels like a trance or even a moment of tranquility. Last year, KADOLEAF dropped a deluxe version of the album Popmonstre and recently featured on Bert Knox’s song “Best Unsaid.” We’re excited to see what KADOLEAF has planned for 2023.
hyejin - “SABOTAGE”
Alternative R&B singer Hyejin recently dropped her highly anticipated EP U GOOD? The three-track EP displays hyejin season ear and vocal ability to ensure her presence is felt. For us, “SABOTAGE,” feels like a song that will stand the test of time. On her latest single, Hyejin reflects on being patient for love while simultaneously acknowledging her desires and tempting to persevere through lustful thoughts. Hyejin’s delivery is angelic, and her descriptive writing makes it emotionally convenient for listeners to connect with her storytelling with understanding. If you’re a fan of contemporary R&B, definitely tap into Hyejin’s evolving catalog. We’re excited to hear what else she has planned for the future.
OG MarlynMonROLLUP - “Vox”
Emerging New York-based artist OG MarlynManROLLUP kicks off the new year with her latest single, “Vox.” Under one minute duration, “Vox” embodies all of the elements that keep a house track moving. The perfect balance of energy and gut-punching lyrics that makes it impossible not to engage. On her latest track, OG MarlynMonROLLUP provides a jammed-packed delivery filled with braggadocios metaphors and exemplified self-awareness that demonstrates her confidence. Last year, OG MarlynMonROLLUP released three singles “Gx3 Freestyle,” “Toxic,” and “It Girl.” Our eyes are glued to see what else she has planned for 2023.
Whit. - “WEIRD FLEX”
Saint Louis, Missouri native Whit. recently dropped a five-track EP, WUNDER: A DEMO DISC, a few days shy of the New Year. This short body of work encapsulates Whit.’s creative realm, and his ability to experiment with different sounds displays his hierarchy as an emerging artist. On “WEIRD FLEX,” Whit. explores the beauty and challenges of courtship. Through the use of smilies and personification, Whit. can express his feelings through poetic lenses. The production alone wears its own character, but Whit.’s cadence carries the song. The writing is joyous and portrays what it means to be in love. Last year, leading to his EP, Whit dropped a few singles highlighting his genre-less creative approach. Our eyes are glued to see what else he has planned for the near future.
MOIO - “SUNBEAMING”
London-based artist MOIO recently dropped his latest self-produced and written single, “SUNBEAMING.” The track brings listeners into a trance as MOIO explores the blissfulness of living fearless and allowing moments of zen to lead his journey. In the process of being open to what life brings, he fears the possibility of things not working in his favor but finds the energy to dance through those worries. The production finds a subtle way to incorporate infused jazz, contemporary R&B, and borderline praise/worship music. The writing is hopeful, and MOIO’s delivery is precise but holds onto the coattail of optimism. The first time MOIO came across our radar was when he produced “BIG FAT LIAR” for Monjola, his brother, whose also a London-based artist. We’re excited to see MOIO step more into his light.
FEW GUUD THOUGHTS| Romeo + Juliet | Raging Bull | Interview + Review
Raging Bull, the latest album from NJ native Romeo + Juliet, is a tour-de-force in modern R&B. In our opinion, he’s coining a new subgenre of R&B we like to call Sci-fi R&B.
Written by: Kha Akerson
R&B is constantly being reinvented and creating sub-genres to continue pushing sound barriers. Raging Bull, the latest album from NJ native Romeo + Juliet, is a tour-de-force in modern R&B. In our opinion, he’s coining a new subgenre of R&B we like to call Sci-fi R&B. The 40-minute body of work, all self-produced and written by Romeo + Juliet, displays his credibility as a well-rounded artist. With innovative production and catchy songwriting, this project is a high watermark in the artist's discography. From the upbeat track “Slide” to the introspective ballad “GEM,” this album showcases the full range of Romeo + Juliet's musical talent. His emotions are descriptive and drenched in metaphors and whimsical smilies that inhabit hopefulness.
Each track on the album offers something unique, yet the cohesive sound ties everything together into a satisfying listening experience. The lyrics are introspective and thought-provoking, tackling themes of self-love, heartbreak, societal discourse, generational trauma, and the optics of appreciating life. The vocals are solid and vibrant, elevating the already impressive instrumentation. He wears his influences on his sleeves in a complimentary way. “Dive Bar” is one of the many stand-out tracks from the project, centers around the blissful moments of vice indulgence. It sincerely feels like a conversation with a happy drunk (if that makes sense.) The guitar riffs and synth chords on “Coocoo” strike right to heart as Romeo+Juliet harmonize against the production. The production value of this album is second to none, with layered soundscapes and creative sound design that shines a light on Romeo + Juliet’s ear. The use of dreamy synths adds an extra layer of interest and keeps the listener engaged throughout.
Raging Bull feels like the perfect score for an indie film. Nurturing in its core but forward-thinking sonically. The beat switches feel paced and unlock another layer of understanding. The words Romeo+Juliet use are poetic, specific, and detailed in emotion. Raging Bill is a triumph in modern music. It sets a new standard for the evolving genre of R&B. This album was stripped away from streaming platforms last year, right around its peak, in effort to evaluate the sound quality and textures even more. We owe Romeo + Juliet a thank you for regifting us this masterpiece.
I feel like you’re coining a new subgenera of R&B, please don’t laugh but when I listen to your music, it feels like Sci-fi R&B
“Wow, that's hard. That is actually hard. It's so interesting that you say that because um, I felt like the question I got most leading up to Raging Bull was what genre are you?
And I feel like, when it comes to just wanting to get a foot in the industry, a lot of times they need those answers because they want to know how to market you…But for me, it's like I'm just making what I wanna make.”
How would you describe your music in two words?
“Ha ha, I hate that question(chuckles.) I get cinematic a lot so I’ll go with that. Maybe euphoric as well.”
Where are you from?
“Born and raised in Jersey City, New Jersey, man.”
Describe your thinking process leading up to Raging Bull
“Man, if I’m being honest with you, I was on my last leg because you know, it comes to a point where like, I gotta pay bills.I don't wanna be a struggling artist forever. I also feel like there's a mentality you have to have as an artist. I mean, to believe in yourself when no one else is listening, lying to yourself almost saying like, no, trust me. With Raging Bull, that was the first time I considered someone can work their hardest and it still does not work out. I feel relieved that it’s working and that I proved myself right.”
How’d you get your start in music?
“I’ve been at it for a really long time. Like most people, I started off in church…Born and raised in a church. That was where I discovered how powerful music can be, you know? Then I started piano lessons after that and slowly started singing. Just trying to figure out, you know, if I could sound like this person, if I could sound like that person, that means I'm pretty good. I remember my older brother just sort of telling me, look, If you wanna be an artist, you have to sing like yourself.”
(Cont’d)
Everything sounds the same, but like my brother was encouraging me not to do that. Which I guess was the start of building a foundation inside me to know that the route that I'm on is gonna take me a little longer because it is sort of against the grain. I was even in a band for a little…I was so focused on getting my 10,000 hours in.”
“NYC”
“So when I did NYC, that was before I had any idea about making a project. “NYC” was me experimenting and I was like, you know what? This sounds really nice. But it was at a point where I was just, living my life, not focused on music.”
“King David”
“It took me almost a year to do King David. I remember working in a testing lab for Covid and different things and I was like writing “King David” on my shift, so I would sneak to the bathroom to record parts of the song on my phone.”
Where did you record Raging Bull at?
“I recorded Raging Bull in an apartment. So like, you know, apartments are super noisy, so I'd have to wait for everyone to be asleep. So I literally record from like midnight to like 4:00 AM, sleep a couple hours and wake up, go to the lab at seven and repeat the cycle.”
What’s the meaning behind the project's title, Raging bull?
“When I was doing this project, I really wanted to look back and know that I did everything with intention and everything with meaning. And I guess I came up with the idea right before the project was done. Raging bull stems from just everything that I had felt internally along the journey, you know? The passion, the rage, the blinded delusion. Plus I was watching a bunch of films at the time and Raging Bull came along, which is an incredible film!”
How has Martin Scorsese films influenced your music?
“He’s the best! there's just levels to his, his films that I enjoy most, you know, it feels like I'm, there's just, it's like it happens in parts. It's almost like Broadway. I feel like when I'm watching his movies where it's like, , part one, part two, intermission, part three, part four. like when I made Raging Bull, I wanted it to flow, but I didn't want everything to sound the same.”
How would you describe your creative process?
“I think the unfortunate thing about how I do music is that I can't do anything if I'm not inspired. it's very strange. I don't wanna say it's an out of body experience, but sometimes it feels like it. I like when it's just flowing. There is no set way. Like I constantly am recording on my phone, like if I have an idea or if I'm talking to you and you say something, I might be like, that's a good idea.
(Cont’d)
Let me write that down, or rather, let me put it in my notes…Let me sing a voice note. . That's how it all happened. So sometimes when I have no inspiration, I'll just look back at all the voice notes I've recorded in the last year.”
What encouraged your decision to take the project down for remastering?
“Full transparency, I started getting calls from everyone, label looks etc. and I was working with a group of people at the time and they were like yo, the music sounds good, but I think it'd be even better if we mixed and remastered it. I thought it sounded as good as it could, but I guess people in the industry thought it could actually sound a little better. It ended up being the best decision I had ever made. For the music, I hate that I lost time, I guess, for people to listen, but I couldn't be happier with how it sounds today.”
(Cont’d)
Kyle is someone I met along the way last year and he's the one who mixed it, super talented. Once he was done, I was like, it's time to give it back to the people, man.”
On “Gem,” you reference your heart at the bottom of the fish tank , let’s unpack that a little. What’s the metaphoric meaning behind the fish tank?
“So “Gem,” I wrote that about the first time I got high, (chuckles). So like okay, in the pandemic, I got high for the first time. At first I didn't think it was working, and then like, I guess it hit me like a train. Like I remember I almost had a, I had a panic attack, you know. I'm like, this is the worst day of my life. And then I remember putting on Mumford and Sons, and then I literally was crying at how beautiful it sounded. What I thought was the worst day of my life somehow became the best day of my life. So I just remember thinking like, all right, when I'm back to normal, like I definitely wanna write a song about this experience. But in shorter words, heart at the bottom of the fish tank, It probably feels to be, I mean, It probably feels to be under the influence of love, but things are not working out.”
What was the hardest song to write?
“It might be King David, I went back and forth with it a lot. I feel like with slower songs, people listen more.So I felt like every single thing that I said had to make sense, you know? I wanted it to make sense because this was the last thing I was gonna do. like I said, I grew up in church, so I guess it was just important for me to just reflect on that.”
“Dive Bar” is one of my favorite songs
“That's the song I’m most proud of. It's just that it flowed, like, once I started writing it, it flowed… nothing was forced. To be honest, like I've always wanted a feel good song that was sort of fast paced, but not in the traditional way, like slide. There was so much thoughtfulness that went into making “Dive Bar.”
What I appreciate about this album is how concise the soundscape is, how was it taking on the producer role as well?
“I always told myself I would never produce. Like, there was a point where I was so super stubborn on just being a singer. I didn't even wanna write songs at a point. I have a hard time putting things into the words to describe what I want, you know? So I just felt the best way for me to do this was to just learn for myself. That was also why it took me a long time to make, because I didn't know what I was doing.”
You’re one of the first artist where the tiktok algorithm worked out for you. How has tiktok changed your trajectory in music?
“One thing I will say is TikTok was my absolute last resort. . before I got on TikTok, I didn't spend any time on TikTok, like leading up to that, I started trying to study the algorithm, trying to see like the best way for me to get my stuff out there.
(Cont’d)
Early TikTok was known for dance videos and I felt that my music wasn’t something to dance to so it felt like a waste of time putting my music on that platform. But one thing I did know was I couldn't look back and say I tried everything. If I didn't put my music on the most popular music platform.”
You’ve mentioned your brother a few times throughout our conversation, how has he influenced you?
“Yeah, my brother is amazing. His name is Zeb. I have two brothers, but Zeb was the one that was really into music and really just knowledgeable about everything. He was the one that brought home Kanye West, College Dropout & Late Registration; Eminem, the Eminem Show album…Get Rich Or Die Trying. . He even put me onto Pharrell, NERD. I learned everything from everything that he brought to the crib, he really introduced to me a lot of things you know what I'm saying? On top of introducing me to new music, he’s always encouraged me to be an individual at the end of everything as well.”
(Cont’d)
I say that I produce everything, but he actually produced the second half of Motherland, 3:00 AM. He produced that.
What’s next?
Yo. That's a good question. People have been asking me for vinyls, so I'm working on that. I would really like to go on a small tour and maybe do merch of some kind. I want the people to have some sort of memorabilia to remember this moment.
Last three albums?
Nancy Wilson - Guess who I saw today?
Mac Miller - Macadelic
Little Simz - No Thank You
Photos by @brevitymediaco
LOOK CLOSELY - Hush Forte
Producer, songwriter and instrumentalist Hush Forte dropped his latest album LOOK CLOSELY. The tape is consistent in the most generous ways. Rounding at 40-min duration , filled with prodigious guitar riffs that revives alternative soundscapes and melodies.
Producer, songwriter and instrumentalist Hush Forte dropped his latest album LOOK CLOSELY. The tape is consistent in the most generous ways. Rounding at 40-min duration , filled with prodigious guitar riffs that revives alternative soundscapes and melodies. Forte’s production displays inspiration from the 1970’s Jazz infusion band Weather Report and glimpses of Stevie Wonders 1980’s classic Hotter Than July.
What sticks out the most is his drum textures. His drums are smothered behind different chord variations but, the presence is still prevalent; not overbearing.
The 11-track offering features Love Mansuy, Saint Lyor, Q, and more. The rugged chord progressions and falsettos on “YOU UNDERSTAND” featuring Q resembles The Parliament. This being their second track together since “summer girls;” when these two team up, stand out moments are guaranteed.
On “GREATEST FAULT,” Forte summaries the process of facing the truth. What happens in the dark will eventually come to light , or you eventually become the darkness.
“The shadows never leave his feet“
Hush Forte is pushing creative boundaries. He finds comfort between contemporary and modern R&B . While at the same time he’s not your typical R&B artist, so expect the unexpected.
NVRTOOLATE #001 // Transit - AJRadio
Upcoming Brooklyn artist , AJRadico, dropped his debut project Transit back in February. With all songs produced and written by AJRadico, he precisely takes us on a futuristic adventure, with the NYC subway lines leading us to the oyster. AJRadico stays true to melodic lines and heavy 808’s to carry his message of proving his disbelievers wrong.
On “Ballhog” , he holds no punches towards the doubters. AJ is fully aware of his place in the world and the challenges he’ll have to endure during his journey.
The nonchalantness of “that’s on me” being repeated on “Centre,” proves that AJRadico understands nothing is perfect and sometimes you have to roll with the punches.
With brazen, AJRadio shows no fear in entering various genre’s and allows his vocal bending abilities to guide his creativity with no barriers.
“Why they hate? (I don't know) And they chat?
I'm in ya downloads, I'm in ya apps
On my downfall they wanna hatch
Tweet, tweet, but they never left the nest “
A Catch “.22” Sends ATL Artist Wesson Desir on a Superficial Adventure in New Video
ATL artist Wesson Desir reminds us of the catch “.22” of fame in his new video which pays homage to the 2006 film Click starring Adam Sandler. With the click of a button, Desir is faced with the worldly/stereotypical aspirations for a rapper…
ATL artist Wesson Desir reminds us of the catch “.22” of fame in his new video which pays homage to the 2006 film Click starring Adam Sandler. With the click of a button, Desir is faced with the worldly/stereotypical aspirations for a rapper… Flashy cars and IG models. The video starts off with the lyric “The world is a product of my design,” and cuts to Desir tied up against his will. Directed by Amandla Baraka and produced by Matthew Schonfeld, the use of the remote as the focal point brings about nostalgic feelings and foreshadows the catch 22 of success, pin-pointing that desires can ignite demise. It seems as though the remote symbolizes fame and the cost to obtain it. On “.22,” Desir delivers a laid back flow reflecting on past triumphs and what’s to come for the future. It’s the type of song you’d put on after a fun summer night, recapping the antics while preparing a Henny and Coke for tonight's endeavors. It’s a guilt free track.
“I hummed the hemisphere to fit me exact.”
Desir is done trying things and is aware of what works for him. “Universe speaking in colored lines” speaks to the duality of speaking things into existence and following up. Desir reminds us there is always a price to pay, but you determine the cost.
Indie-Blues Artist Aidan Ochre Conducts Science Experiment on Love vs Lust
20-year-old New York State indie artist Aidan Ochre explores the derailing emotions of differentiating what’s love vs lust on his latest ep release Ochre. Ochre feels like a science experiment.
20-year-old New York State indie artist Aidan Ochre explores the derailing emotions of differentiating what’s love vs lust on his latest ep release Ochre. Ochre feels like a science experiment. On “Is This Love” Ochre questions his own intentions and feelings before reacting.
“Playing with emotions/ It all feels hopeless/ Unless you’ll be feeling it too.”
The plush production allows the spacing between his words to show curiosity and optimism. Disguised under heavy reverb, fuzzy production, and beautiful guitar solos, Ochre allows his unguarded feelings to conduct his research on “Let You Know.” While still acknowledging his adulation, Ochre decides to “Slow Down.”
“I don't want to rush now/ If we don’t have to.”
The atmospheric transition from “Let You Know” to the jazz-funk influenced track “Slow Down” feels like Ochre might’ve jumped the gun by putting his emotions out too early and is now seeking to ground himself. Usually, after some research, your hypothesis is slightly adjusted before the experiment. Occupying the fourth slot is “Keep it Moving,” which is a bit more upbeat compared to the rest of the project. On this track, Ochre is dancing through the pain.
“We keep it moving but it’s so easy to see/ I’m losing feelings and you keep on pushing me.”
Now that Ochre is finally experimenting with those emotions, he’s coming to the realization that maybe it wasn’t love. “Guess I should've saw it coming.” On “Ever Changes,” Ochre cuts right to the chase and comes to terms with his conclusion. Sometimes, the truth feels better than the bliss. But, you’ll never know unless you test it out. This project feels very blue. Honestly, closer to indigo. The bluesy and fuzzy production is comforting while filling space in the mind of Aidan Ochre. Ochre is encouraging listeners to just go for it because moments of uncertainty could provide growth and healing.
This project feels very blue. Honestly, closer to indigo. The bluesy and fuzzy production is comforting while filling space in the mind of Aidan Ochre. Ochre is encouraging listeners to just go for it because moments of uncertainty could provide growth and healing.
Punk-Rap Artist Hollow Sinatra Sets Ode to Self-Love on Black Takes
The distortion Sinatra uses pierces the soul. The pace and texture of “Yard” can be compared to metal/punk rock, like on some Metal Church meets blink-182
Learning to love yourself is a process. It’s easy to say it, but to really mean it... that shit takes time and effort. At times, we find ourselves filling up others and forget to replenish ourselves. Last November, my grandmother passed away. A week before she had passed, I drove down from NY to VA after work on a Friday night. I only spent 24 hours down there because I had to rush back for a meeting. We laughed, we reminisced, and even spoke about the future. Before I left, she asked “Now, boy, why were you so eager to see me?” and I mumbled “because I felt the need.” But, deep down, I knew things were coming to an end. I needed to get my fill because I knew I would be depended on to replenish my loved ones as they mourned.
“Sometimes my life feels like a filler.”
As I listened to Black Takes, the first thing I thought was that I’m upset this wasn’t out around the time I needed it. Second, it makes me appreciate myself and the concept of one learning to love themselves. “Yard” feels like a song you would blast as a teenager during your emo phase. Sinatra’s vocal layering is abrupt and harsh but the message is a positive ode to loving yourself. The distortion Sinatra uses pierces the soul. The pace and texture of “Yard” can be compared to metal/punk rock, like on some Metal Church meets blink-182 type shit. You could also feel a small ounce of Yeezus influences but aye, we’re all at fault for that at some point.
“Off a Bridge” is my highlight track off the tape. I recommend you throw this on at the beginning of a pregame playlist. “The shadows of yesterday's pillars/ Sometimes my life feels like a filler.” The dubstep-ish lilting production makes a perfect blend with Sinatra’s hazy wordplay, making listeners sink into the music. I felt as if I was falling into a dark space while extending my hands out, hoping someone would reach for mine. I believe that’s the feeling Sinatra wanted to portray with this project… Learning to love yourself during moments of emptiness and loneliness.
I love seeing black musicians going against the grain and experimenting with different genres. At times, music could feel like a rat race when everyone is chasing the same sound. It’s refreshing to hear something rare that makes you question the next direction music will take. As we approach the half year mark of 2020, I am interested to see where Hollow Sinatra takes the new age sound of punk-rap.
“GRIP is Far From the Porch” - Halo by GRIP Review
As a listener, it feels like we’re watching Grip shadow box in front of an audience with a spotlight on him. You can feel that he’s aware of the eyes on him but his confidence is energized off his sharpened lyricism.
The snubnose rapper opens up his five-track ep with the lyrics “this shit feels like a classic” on “Cassius,” followed by towering drums that remind you of a Just Blaze production during his Roc-a-fella/Dipset run. As a listener, it feels like we’re watching Grip shadow box in front of an audience with a spotlight on him. You can feel that he’s aware of the eyes on him but his confidence is energized off his sharpened lyricism since his 2019 release Snubnose.
“Dont get it confused cause I’m a nigga who raps”
On “Randy Watson,” Grip pokes fun at himself, emulating Eddie Murphy’s subconscious spirit in the 1988 comedy Coming to America. Poking fun at his fellow rap mates and himself shows that Grip is down for the antics but demands respect for his lyrical efforts.
The final track “Memories is 4eva” brings the EP insync. Grip allows grief to strip away his ego and reveal what is beneath the Halo. Grip thinks back on the loss of friends, his grandmother, and his first child. “My grandma was right there for my first words/ Damn I wasn't even there for her last/ I figured I would visit when I could/ I was at work and got the call when she passed.” It feels like Grip is having a conversation with his listeners and is trying to find a hopeful brightside.
In 2017, I heard Porch by accident. What I appreciate about Grip as an artist is that he makes you believe him. The details in his storytelling are captured to the point where you don’t have to ask questions... but, you want to, just to see where his explanation would take you. Halo is definitely a tape I would suggest listening to. Grip is far from the Porch.