Category Archives: Reviews

Kemini – Vendetta

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Vendetta is a new album from artist, Vendetta. His style combines elements of rock and hip hop. The unique twist though is that the songs also have a haunting and surreal vibe, unlike older blended styles like rapcore. The backing beats are high intensity and have a futuristic, almost industrial quality. Kemini’s vocal delivery is expressive. He spouts his rhymes with passion and emotional intensity, while also occasionally revealing a relaxed side on some of the lighter tracks.

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He’s a surprisingly versatile performer, who’s able to transform his vocal style to accommodate the frequent changes in the music. There are a lot of lyrics packed into these songs, as Kemini’s “stream of consciousness” style flow seems to never be at a loss for words. My favorite song on Vendetta is probably Be Like Wayne with its snappy rhythm and witty verses. The most prominent and radio friendly single on the album is probably Cross the Line. There’s a sweet video for this jam that’s slightly psychedelic and artistically edited.

For more info:

https://www.facebook.com/MINIMafiaMusicGroup/
Instagram @youhearkemini
Tik Tok @keminimafia

Kobra Man – Man On a M.I.S.S.I.O.N.

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Man On a M.I.S.S.I.O.N. is a new album from Buffalo, NY-based hip hop artist, Kobra Man. You get the idea this is something classic right away with the first track, Basic Instinct. The piano-driven back beat is exquisite and gives the music an almost vintage feel, while the overall ambiance is haunting and hypnotic. Kobra Man’s delivery style is conversational and reflective. It’s like listening to a contemplative monologue or storytelling session. He has a naturally charismatic and attention-commanding flow, and his voice occasionally builds in intensity, corresponding with the climactic points of the songs.

One of my favorite tracks on here is the no-nonsense jam, Fully Equipped. The minimalist beat is balanced by some rather creative vocal effects and a lively performance. Kobra Man playfully incorporates animalistic metaphors to emphasize his ferocity and go-getter attitude. Man On a M.I.S.S.I.O.N. is stylish and original. The title turns out to be very appropriate, as the mixtape remains thematically and artistically consistent throughout. It’s the work of a determined man who knows what he is going for and sticks to the plan.

For more info:

Xay Herron – DROP (Prod. By Skeyez Beats)

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DROP (Prod. By Skeyez Beats) is a new single from Minneapolis-based hip hop artist, Xay Herron. The backing beat on this track is futuristic and slick, with a nice, crisp bass that’s sure to bump in pretty much any sound system. Xay Herron’s delivery is dynamic and moves along in a rhythmic, methodical fashion. Occasional breaks in the beat help to shake up the song’s structure a bit, adding an element of complexity. The robust bass is balanced by a chill atmosphere and melodic vocals. With its fresh and slightly mysterious ambiance, this is definitely the kind of jam that seems ideal for nighttime drives through the city. Xay Herron has quite a few interesting releases under his belt. I recommend checking out some of those as well.

For more info:

https://soundcloud.com/xayherron

JIFFTHEGENERAL – Love Potion

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Love Potion is a new single from South London-based hip hop/R&B artist, JIFFTHEGENERAL. The song is an early precursor to an 8-track album titled The Final Lap, which is tentatively slated for release in 2022. With Love Potion, JIFFTHEGENERAL blends a unique, salacious brand of Afro-swing with some delightfully melodic rapping. The vocals are so precise, it’s almost hypnotic. You can’t ask for lyrical delivery that’s more on point than this timing wise.

Musically, the song has an eloquent and tropical feel, with subtly sensual undertones and summertime night vibes. The catchy rhyming style and occasionally witty verses give Love Potion potential pop sensibilities. It’s classy, yet down to Earth enough for people to dance to in a casual setting. It’s almost like the hip hop equivalent of yacht rock. For people seeking leisurely escapist fun and romantically charged atmosphere, this jam could be just what the doctor ordered.

For more info:

https://www.instagram.com/jiffthegeneral

Tony Ro$e – I Owe You, Vol 1 (EP)

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I Owe You, Vol 1 is a new EP from Tony Ro$e (aka Tax Free Tony), a hip hop artist based in Portland, Oregon. With a plethora of releases under his belt, he’s been passionately representing his community and supporting other Portland artists for two decades.

This latest release marks Tony Ro$e’s longest and most ambitious release this year. The sound is stylish and flavorful, blending aesthetic old school vibes with 21st century intensity. Colorful and rhythmic mixes provide worthy backdrops for his casual and charismatic delivery style. In true collaborative spirit, the songs are peppered with guest artists as well, such as Charlee Brown, Eso.XO.Supreme, Louie Slugga and DJ Pryce Miyagi.

The performances are professional and and the flow is very smooth. Unlike with other hip hop releases, I Owe You, Vol 1 never projects even a hint of insecurity. You never get the sense that any of these people are “trying too hard.” These are relaxed, confident and proficient rappers who know what they’re doing.

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One of my favorite tracks on here is titled Dope. It employs some echo effects that really enhance the tone, and it’s just extremely satisfying, sonically. The retro organ melodies on the song Magic give it a golden age hip hop feel. You don’t hear that as often on newer jams, which tend to bombard listeners with heavily processed beats. Overall, this EP has a robust and invigorating sound, ideal for backyard summertime pool parties and fun car rides. Don’t overlook the underlying sentimentality and appreciation for friendship in the songs though. Such expressions give I Owe You, Vol 1 a lot of its charm. Also, be sure and check out the video (produced by KanielTheOne) for Tony Ro$e’s single, Tax Free, which is embedded below.

For more info:

https://music.apple.com/us/album/i-owe-you-vol-1-ep/1570679796

Xitanna – No Mercy

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No Mercy is a new single from artist, Xitanna. Backed by a robust beat, this bold and lavish track blends elements of hip hop R&B and pop. As the title suggests, Xitanna gives a charismatic and assertive performance. Her lyrical delivery is brimming with sensual style and confidence. The rhythm is crisp and melodic accents in the mix round things off nicely in the music department. This song makes effective use of vocal layering, and the backing has a subtly dreamlike ambiance. No Mercy is a solid, no-nonsense track, performed with enough feeling and sensitivity for the listener to appreciate the song’s romantic undertones.

For more info:

https://song.link/6wbrfg6bvkjtw
https://www.instagram.com/xitanna_/

773JUAN – Chargeback

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Chargeback is a new single from Chicago-based hip hop artist, 773JUAN. This hard-hitting jam crams plenty of energy and action into its 2 and 1/2 minute runtime. The melodic intro offers up a smooth and R&B flavored side to the music, before transitioning into a fresh, colorful beat. The rhythm has a swift, summertime bounce to it. It’s a minimalist beat but sufficiently gives the song a tight framework, leaving enough room for the vocals to take the reins.

Speak of which, 773JUAN’s delivery maintains a dynamic, quick-paced and natural flow. He doesn’t merely “rap” though. He actually sings the lyrics, and effectively incorporates vocal harmonies to enhance the mix. I’d estimate that this track is about 85% hip hop and 15% R&B vibes. It’s actually impressive just how many words 773JUAN manages to fit into the song without cutting corners and being repetitive. His performance is relentless and he doesn’t even bother to come up for air.

In keeping consistent with the theme implied by the song’s title, the concept of credit is peppered throughout as an artistic motif. Lifestyle, excitement and money are the name of the game. 773JUAN’s exemplifies the Chicago hip hop style, which is substantive, no-nonsense and action oriented. He just very direct. Musically, it’s very enjoyable. The song has an intensity but is laid back enough to be appreciated in a low-key party atmosphere as well. Ultimately, Chargeback is a solid and straighforward hip hop entry, smooth and polished around the edges with musicality. Th song is available on Spotify, Apple Music and other streaming platforms. I’d recommend you check it out, and keep your eyes peeled for other releases from this prolific artist, who already has a number of other singles under his belt.

For more info:

https://music.apple.com/us/album/chargeback/1574779976?i=1574779979

Miss Chay Bella – I Want You

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I Want You is a new single from artist, Miss Chay Bella. The song is a vibrant and passionate expression of longing, with an underlying message of how hope can get you through tough times. As the title suggests, the lyrics are straightforward and stick to the heart of the matter. Musically, the track features a modestly paced beat and bright, exotically flavorful melodies. Miss Chay Bella’s sentimentally honest vocals ultimately carry the song, providing the artistic and emotional traction to free the listener of any negative vibes. Her voice is empowering (even in its sensitivity) and has a sincere charm.

You really can’t ask for something more heartfelt than this. While it’s the 4th of July right now, keep this jam in your playlist for when Valentine’s Day comes around or just save it for some rainy afternoon when you’re looking to lift your spirits.

For more info:

http://www.misschaybella.com
http://www.instagram.com/misschaybella

Thirty Three Degrees – (Self Titled)

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Thirty Three Degrees’ self titled debut album impresses from start to finish. One gets the idea right away with the opening track Get Me Outta Here, which contains some of the best vintage guitar tones you’ll ever hear. The whole album is robust and rocking. The best way I can describe it is that this is like classic rock that’s better than most actual classic rock. The sound is very much reminiscent of groups like Badfinger, The Kinks and The Yardbirds, particularly where the guitars are concerned. When the vocals come into play, they’re powerful and loud, really amping up and intensifying the vibe a few notches. It’s hard to even believe this is a “debut” album. It’s just too good. These guys have real style.

For more info:

https://www.facebook.com/ThirtyThreeDegreesBand
https://open.spotify.com/album/0rp1hrLdtPA1CGa8uHaXw5

Adrian John Szozda – The Life of Someone I Once Knew

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The Life of Someone I Once Knew is a new album from Toledo-based artist, Adrian John Szozda. What’s unique about this release is that it is actually a story. Featuring a full narrative, complete with hero and heroine, the album takes the listener on an avant garde and poetic journey. The tracks are packed with sentiments youthful exuberance, passion, romance and a bold “zest for life.” Don’t let the esoteric setup fool you into thinking this is a gimmick album. This music is of the highest quality, both technically and artistically.

It’s difficult to classify the style, but it has a folkish rock quality with elements of Americana, capturing very much the spirit of travel and exploration on the open road. The performance is clean and melodic, enveloped in a mix that really brings out the best of the sound. Some of the more romantic songs will really make you blush. The Life of Someone I Once Knew is scheduled to be released on 07/16/21.

For more info:

https://www.adrianjohnszozda.com
https://twitter.com/AdrianSzozda
https://rockershoprecords.bandcamp.com