Tag: hip hop

New York artist Ché has dropped off a new self-titled album. Preceded by the potent singles, “APRIL 16th”, “SAMSARA”, and “FORGET ME NOT”, CHÉ capitalizes on the momentum the NY native has been building with 11 diverse tracks that draw from hip-hop, alternative R&B, jazz, and more. CHÉ is an album versatile in sound and heartfelt in content, as it finds the New York artist dropping a series of thoughtful verses atop engaging, diverse instrumentation. Throughout the record, an undercurrent of youthful energy is present- with shades of hope for brighter times, while also touching upon being in the thralls of depression and frustration. Using his bicycle as a motif, the album’s dynamic pace, observational nature, and NYC references are given added context and layers, giving CHÉ a conceptual edge. CHÉ is a record that won’t be boxed in, remaining refreshingly authentic with tracks that are sometimes triumphant- such as “LOCKER 260”- and at times darkly confessional and cathartic, like “NOBODY AROUND US”. There’s a healthy dose of surrealism present as well with vivid tracks like “PERFECTO PARK” painting a dreamscape lyrically and sonically. Album single “SAMSARA” also demonstrates Ché’s ability to craft infectious, memorable melodies in his songwriting, with a more pop-leaning offering that still delves into the jazzy, DIY aesthetics of the remainder of the album.

Overall, CHÉ presents a poignant new album from this young NYC artist that is multi-layered, heartfelt, and refreshing. It seems to be safe to say this could go down as one of our favorite records this year. Give CHÉ a listen below.

We came across South Bend, IN artist Gxldsoulrebel‘s track “What’s Real?” recently, and from there delved into his recent project The True Man Show. From the record, “What’s Real?” makes for a highlight with its insightful exploration of self and society, containing richly poetic bars laced atop warm, hypnotic production. With his characteristically laid-back, crisp delivery, Gxldsoulrebel lays down heartfelt bars woven into dynamic rhyme patterns, that work cohesively with the song’s soulful instrumentation. Above thought-provoking key melodies and airy percussion, he shines on the mic by piecing together lines filled with vibrant imagery. Conveying a sense of hope while maintaining a true-to-life feel throughout, “What’s Real?” makes for a highlight cut from the South Bend artist. Give it a listen here now.

The Bronx’s Ricky Mapes has dropped off a new visual for his track “Banksy 88”, produced by The Natural Law and directed by Schweppes Baguette. The opening cut from his recent album OVERTHINKING, “Banksy 88” presented a standout off the record with its emotive, sharply-crafted lyricism and soulful, textural production. Atop a tapestry of gritty horns and rich strings that give the song a powerful sound, Mapes delivers line after line of potent social commentary and introspection, drawing the listener into the track’s immersive feel and relating them in the process. The new video, directed by Schweppes Baguette, features crisp shots and a compelling performance from Mapes with warm, inviting coloration. Check out the video for Ricky Mapes’ “Banksy 88”, released on the prolific Soulspazm, below and stream OVERTHINKING while you’re at it.