Author: befree

Florida experimental hip-hop artists JASMINEGOLD, comprised of David Nights and Kj, have returned with a new single called “friendly fire”. Continuing their streak of eclectic, boundary-pushing offerings after the release of their well-received project Serpent, “friendly fire” is a poignant and expressive track that finds them delivering sharply-crafted bars and characteristically outside-the-box production.

“friendly fire” contains refreshing, bouncy production by Kj that opens with sleek reversed keys, before buoyant, airy percussion and 808s moor the beat with rich grooves. Atop the lush instrumentation, Nights delivers engaging, laid-back flows before a beat switch brings in a powerful, glitchy backdrop and he ups the ante with self-contained yet ferocious bars. The second half of the beat is electrifying, with swirling samples and fast-paced, energetic percussion giving it an intense flair.

With the release of “friendly fire”, JASMINEGOLD have also dropped a new music video, which engagingly presents a lo-fi aesthetic. Raw, gritty shots suit the surreal, dark feel of the song, making for a cohesive visual accompaniment. Watch the video here:

The latest from Florida’s JASMINEGOLD, “friendly fire” is another example of their potent left-field sound, and makes for a strong offering following their vibrant album Serpent.

Listen to “friendly fire” now:

Connect with JASMINEGOLD: Spotify | Instagram

By Jacob Ezra

Pittsburgh’s Connie Roses has connected with Royal Haunts for a new single called “Bells and Bugs”. Following up his recent single, “The City”, which incorporated influences from hip-hop and punk for a cathartic, raucous listen, “Bells and Bugs” shows a different side of Roses musically, with vibrant, airy sounds and R&B flourishes. “Bells and Bugs” is textural and character-rich like many releases in his discography, yet finds him exploring some new territory, with melodic-leaning vocals and a more laid-back, yet still vaguely unsettling, mood.

Like his previous single “The City”, “Bells and Bugs” expresses frustration, but in a more subtle way, through abstract imagery and sounds that recall a colorful kaleidoscope. The song’s atmospheric synths, watery keys, and bouncy percussion feel minimalistic, yet at the same time create a “sheet of sound” effect, to intriguing results. Atop the vivid instrumentation, Roses and Royal Haunts deliver contrasting yet cohesive performances, finding a natural chemistry as they balance hip-hop influenced deliveries with melodic inflections. Their performances interestingly blend the uncertain with the calm, playing a large role in the mercurial feel that is central to the track.

“Bells and Bugs” does an effective job of balancing contrasting sounds and moods in a cohesive manner, primarily relaxed and expressive yet with a constant undercurrent of something uncertain. The song conjures a feeling of anxiety about existence in today’s chaotic modern world, yet is moored and grounded by rich, sturdy grooves, and a potent vibrancy.

Listen to “Bells and Bugs” now:

Watch the video for “Bells and Bugs” here:

St. Louis-based artist, The Ian Moore, has released his newest single, titled Change. This new offering shows a new side of Ian’s artistic toolbox delivering an ambient pop track as opposed to his more hip-hop leaning catalog. On this new sound Moore says, “I keep trying to evolve and get better with my music and try new and fresh things. I hope everyone enjoys!” It’s hard not to nod your head as you listen along to this one.

Following the release of his 14 track album, INFINITY FOREVER, this track shows Ian’s musical evolution adding a new sonic palette to his catalog. An anthemic and reverb soaked vocal cuts through emotional pianos and synthesizers. The drum pad enters the track and takes the song a dimension further to cement Moore’s lyrics of changing.

“Change is about willing to make a significant change or alteration to the old ways in a relationship in order to turn it into something else for the better,” The Ian Moore says. He said he hopes this song will inspire people to continue following their dreams and pushing through the hard times, even if that hard time is a relationship gone south – the backbone of the new single.

This track aligns with the artist’s core philosophy in why he started making music in the first place. Back in 2018 he started creating as a form of therapy to help cope with the struggles he faced in life. “While it still poses as a form of therapy, it has grown into something much more.”

With previous coverage that includes Rolling Stone India, Hype Magazine, Music Crowns, and more as well as collaborations with artists such as well-known hip-hop act, Futuristic – The Ian Moore continues to evolve.

Listen to “Change” now:

Fast-rising music group Divert have shared a new single called “feeling you out”. Featuring engaging performances from Divert artists TOPFLOOR, WAX, Ghetto Guitar, and Prod Jai, “feeling you out” is a poignant and sharply-crafted track that showcases that this is a group worthy of paying attention to.

“feeling you out” blends genres for a refreshing, idiosyncratic offering. With a driving bass-line that draws influence from punk that pairs with crisp, trap-influenced percussion and raw guitars, the instrumental on “feeling you out” is electrifying and addictive.

A highlight is the track’s vocals, with each artist showcasing kinetic chemistry as they trade versatile yet cohesive verses. Packed full with commanding, memorable melodies that blend elements of punk, hip-hop, pop, and more, “feeling you out” is a song that tantalizes with its enticing, energetic sound.

The latest from the rising music group Divert, “feeling you out” makes for a catchy, focused release and has us excited for what may be coming next from them.

Listen to “feeling you out” now:

Connect with Divert on Instagram HERE.

By Damilola Grey

Rap Villain founder and Newark native, Alley Rocket is back with another single titled “Like That”. He has been on a winning streak, feeding his fans (popularly known as cadets) with nothing but bangers for the past few months, and he extends that streak now with the release of this single.

On “Like That”, Alley Rocket takes a melodic approach. Rocket talks about what he likes in life: from Jordan 4’s and 9’s to women. He also talks about a lady who sees as more unique than other women, even if she seems, on the surface, like the others. “Like That” is a geechie drill track with amazing production, catchy lyrics and melodies, which can only be done by the top V himself; Alley Rocket. It’s a song everyone can vibe and relate to.

With Rocket extending his hot streak with this single, all we can wonder is “what’s next?”

Stream “Like That” on all platforms HERE.

By Damilola Grey

New York native, Tireek is most notably known as a very talented rapper who drops introspective and inspirational verses in most of his tracks. The Brooklyn artist is back with another single titled, “No More”, which features another talented rapper, Rozotadi.

On this track, Tireek talks about being his goal of being the greatest, as well as being widely regarded. He states that giving up is not an option since it’s the life he chose and also talks about his plans to make his team proud. Tireek’s verse is packed with amazing wordplay and bars, as well as a delivery which can only be described as perfect. Rozotadi also graces the track with a verse nothing short of amazing. “No More” has a very vibey, up-tempo feel to it and can be played during those times you’re feeling down or unmotivated.

When I talked to Tireek about “No More”, he said “it’s a song about reclaiming your power and securing all the things that you hope to obtain in life. It’s about never letting anything take you out of your element again and staying ten toes down as you reach new heights”. With a release this good, we won’t be surprised at the great heights Tireek will reach.

Stream No More HERE on all platforms.

By Evan Smith

Trenton, New Jersey artist and Renaissance Music member Cheek The Profit has shared a new video for his recent single “Big Bag”. Since the release of his well-received album The Profit Strikes Back back in 2021, the artist has been steadily carving his own lane as an up-and-comer rising from the East Coast. His new release, “Big Bag”, further proves his prowess as a rapper and songwriter, as he flows smoothly and charismatically atop colorful, infectious production from Filed Beats. The accompanying visual, directed by T Nickelson, is warm and vibrant, using fast-paced shots to capture the song’s dynamic energy. Cheek gives a commanding performance as well, keeping the listener highly attentive until the video’s culmination.

Containing infectious, confident sonics that feel sunny and bright, as well as triumphant vocals and flexible rhyme schemes from Cheek, “Big Bag” keeps things positive and motivational in an engaging manner, making for a strong release from the New Jersey artist and Renaissance Music member. This offering has us excited for what may be coming next from Cheek, as he looks to finish off 2022 in a big way.

Follow Cheek The Profit at @cheektheprofit on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube

Watch the video for “Big Bag” here:

By Trey Fox

Dave Coresh is a multi talented artist who’s been a constant fixture in the music industry for over a decade. The Chicago, IL native made his presence felt in his local scene as a creative and lyrically dynamic rapper. He was also one of Vic Mensa’s earliest collaborators. Coresh eventually branched out to LA and expanded his sound. He would go on to play with jam bands, form a music production house, and work on records with critically acclaimed artists such as Fousheé and Ty Dolla $ign. Coresh has now released his debut EP, an adventurous punk-rap record filled with incredible highs in just under 14 minutes.

While four of the six tracks were previously released as singles, they hit just as hard in the context of the record. Coresh’s flow on “NOBODY CARES” is calculated, rapping every word boldly and confidently. As the beat builds, the guitar melodies and Coresh’s vocals become more electrifying. “Nobody cares!” he yells into the void.

The second track, “TALK2ME,” is just as riotous. Coresh skates over the heavy bass and ominous guitar riffs. Mother Wata’s guest refrain is well-executed. The energy she brings on the record is a perfect fit. “PYMFB” remains just as entertaining. Sonically and vocally, Coresh delivers what feels like a public service announcement.

On a record that oozes aggression, “IDGNF” might be Coresh at his most confrontational from a lyrical perspective. He matches the energy of the thunderous 808s, delivering hard punchlines in quick succession. “Finna make a killing/I’m in the building, asbestos,” he raps fiercely. This is a clear standout on a project full of eye-popping moments.

“DUMBLUCK” and “CHECK MY CHECK” weren’t previously released, and they help to close out the record well. Coresh has a “pocket full of problems” on the former, looking back on fun but infamous drug-fueled moments. The latter is an energetic closer, and it’s also the longest song at over three minutes long. Coresh’s bravado is through the roof, taking time to clown lesser artists in the process. He threatens to “Put yo’ EP on a playlist and instantly hit eject.” As the song progresses, the hook slows down and the vocal pitches are lowered. It adds a little bit of eeriness to finish things off. Coresh delivered on a debut that was well worth the wait.

Stream “SMOKENMIRRORS” now:

https://open.spotify.com/album/0YK7zQBHSKRhlg6YOX5Y6k

By Damilola Grey

Dami: What inspired you to start rapping?

Trey Posey: It just really helped free my mind and the thought of helping someone else in their day-to-day life is what made me want to put it out for people to hear. I’ve always wrote songs since I was little for fun, and I always loved it. J Cole’s “2014 Forest Hills Drive” helped me through certain things, and that made me want to potentially help other people.

Dami: Most people would describe you as a lyrical rapper but how would you describe your sound?

Trey Posey: I would definitely say lyrical too, but I would call it a combination of lyricism, relatability, and versatility. It’s optimistic but real and dark at the same time. Kinda like a child’s sense of wonder with an adult perspective.

Dami: What are 3 words you’ll use to describe your music?

Trey Posey: Authentic, relatable, and unique.

Dami: Who are your biggest inspirations?

Trey Posey: J Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, JID, Lil Wayne. Also I got a line; “my inspiration is my own potential”.

Dami: When making music, where do you grab inspiration from?

Trey Posey: Just how I’m feeling at the moment and the message I want to portray at the time. Sometimes when I need more inspiration, I’ll write outside in nature somewhere or just a different environment, other than the studio, that gives off the creative feel.

Dami: What’s your creative process like?

Trey Posey: I find it, make a beat, then I brainstorm ideas and go back to lyrics in my notes and see if those fit the vibe and keep them in mind if they do. Then I freestyle melodies and flows on the beat and keep the ones that sound good, then write to them and mix as I go.

Dami: Tell us about your latest project “Spoken Letters”.

Trey Posey: It’s a great, cohesive project that shows growth. There’s a letter in every song that’s to someone or something. It’s mature and there’s a lot of self-reflecting on it. There’s something for everyone and I think everyone can resonate with at least one song.

Dami: What does the project mean to you?

Trey Posey: Man it means a lot. This was another stepping stone of my artistry. I feel like I’ve finally mastered my sound. This project is a deep, vulnerable story of the pursuit of happiness. It’s the best music I’ve ever made.

Dami: What do you want people to take away after listening to it?

Trey Posey: I want people to feel like they’re not alone. I just want them to feel something. I love making music that people can really FEEL. Also, I want people to recognize my potential, and I’m not going nowhere.

Dami: What’s next for you after “Spoken Letters”?

Trey Posey: More big things. Doing some videos and maybe a deluxe for the project. Then next year, dropping more music and doing more and more shows. Just trying to get my name out there more.

Dami: What has been the most stressful part of being a rapper?

Trey Posey: I think just doing everything by myself. Writing, recording, mixing, mastering, marketing, finding shows, making my own cover art majority of the time, and occasionally producing. It’s a lot but I love it. It’s stressful trying to gain and keep fans as an independent artist, but it’ll be worth it in the end.

Dami: What’s your favorite part of being a rapper though?

Trey Posey: The art of it. The process of putting my feelings in a song and beging in the zone and getting chills from a song I make. Also another favorite part is when it releases and I get people’s feedback and they love it just as much as me.

Listen to “Spoken Letters” now HERE.