Massachusetts artist Jxylen has dropped off a new EP called DIVINE ORDER: ACT I, produced by E.N.G. Creation, fresh off the heels of his recent LP PROJECT MAYHEM: FIGHT CLUB EDITION. While his previous full-length project was often a dark, ominous analysis of the world around him, DIVINE ORDER: ACT I turns things further inward with its introspective content, simultaneously taking on a lighter, cathartic tone in its production and lyricism.
Weaving, soulful beats carry a certain airiness beneath Jxylen’s flows, as he sounds more assured and less burdened on DIVINE ORDER: ACT I, managing to let much off his chest and turn his focus towards new possibilities. Songs like “DON’T WAIT” encapsulate this, with Jxylen still enhancing his delivery with force, yet containing it and throwing in a sense of subtle optimism to balance things out. “THE GOD HOUR” sounds nearly triumphant, despite its aura of gritty realism, as stabs of refreshing vocal samples and elegant keys ring out under Jxylen’s confident verses.
DIVINE ORDER: ACT I takes on a different tone from Jxylen, while retaining his usual penchant for poetic, thoughtful lyricism and grimy instrumentation. It gives off a sense of release and letting go to make way for a brighter future, while keeping its style and sound gritty and raw like the Massachusetts rapper’s previous efforts. Give it a listen below and check out the new video for “DON’T WAIT” while you’re at it.
Detroit’s Valid and Stretch Money have shared a fresh song and video called “Game Film”. After release the well-received “Commentate” and their engaging 80s inspired single “Sentimental” ,Valid and Stretch Money are back with their ode to 80s cinematography, “Game Film”. Co-production shared by platinum credited Grammy-Award winning DJ Head of Shady Records, Grammy-Award winning Anthony Rizzo, and Detroit staple Eddie Logix. “Game Film” is an ethereal, lush track that pairs silky instrumentation with assured, charismatic flows from the two rappers that demonstrate their natural chemistry.
Warm, hypnotic harps blend with drifting strings to create a blissful atmosphere, as crisp, refreshing percussion moors the track beneath. Atop the silvery beat, Valid and Stretch Money deliver poignant verses full of references to films from the 80s, demonstrating a deep love and knowledge of retro cinematography. The video, directed by Jerry Reid, makes for a cohesive accompaniment with VHS-inspired shots that capture the song’s old school feel, complete with locker room and gym settings and an engaging performance from the two emcees.
During a phone conversation, Valid mentioned to Stretch that an idea came to him for them to do a record referencing classic 80s movie titles, scenes, and phrases. As he was saying it out loud, it came to him instantly that sports team’s study game film. “Stretch, I got it. To stay true to the concept of the album, we watch game film like sports teams do, but our game film is these classic gangsta’ ass 80s flicks.” Stretch saw the picture painted clearly, and the two went to work on top of the Eddie Logix score. The two MCs would end up penning what both would consider some of their proudest works, and a legit ode to the VHS era.
When it comes to hip-hop, Motor City is a locale synonymous with the genre. Over the years, the city has spawned many sub-genres, sounds, and styles that have resonated with many and laid their imprint upon the rap game as a whole. On Mike Wilder and Jake Bass’ new album D.E.A.P. (an acronym for Detroit Emcees and Producers), they tie all of these sounds together in a cohesive manner alongside a gifted set of collaborators. A poignant, infectious set of 10 songs that is diverse as it gets, D.E.A.P. brings in elements of boom-bap, lyrical hip-hop, trap, and more, to further exemplify why Detroit remains as one of the top cities in rap year after year. It’s a potent statement backed by powerful sonics and sharply-crafted lyricism, and D.E.A.P. makes for a strong offering overall that combines the sharp skills of multiple talents, including the likes of Pariis Noel, Marvwon, and more.
Some highlight tracks here include the atmospheric “Pray For Me”, which includes a dazzling set of lyrically-focused verses delivered smoothly, and the heavy, trap banger “Roll Witta Clique”, a track densely packed with charisma and style.
D.E.A.P. is the latest poignant offering from Mike Wilder and Jake Bass. Wilder, who executive produced this album alongside Jake Bass originally got his start in the industry by co-producing Eminem’s debut album Infinite in 1996. He also co-founded the prolific music company NUKID, LLC alongside Marky Bass. Be sure to check out D.E.A.P. below and further familiarize yourself with some of Detroit’s most talented rappers and producers.
Rising out of one of the south’s music capitals Houston, Texas, comes CA the Don with a captivating new release titled “Too High”. An engaging, genre-bending track that combines elements of hip-hop, R&B, and dance for a truly versatile joint, “Too High” presents another strong release from the consistent CA. In particular, “Too High” puts his songwriting on center stage, while also demonstrating his sharp ear for poignant production. CA the Don continues to push his own boundaries with each new release, isn’t afraid to experiment with his sound, and delivers to his audience time and time again, and “Too High” is another example of this.
Rich guitars and infectious bass open up “Too High”, followed by an engaging drum groove that pairs smoothly with the track’s warm instrumentation. CA starts off slow and slick with vocals that combine hip-hop and R&B elements with melodious inflections, before the song makes an engaging transition into a dance-infused joint. Throbbing percussion and immersive synths give the track a clean club feel, as CA takes the song to new heights as a vocalist with his silky delivery. The new video makes for a cohesive accompaniment as well, with balmy shots and a retro filter that immerse the listener in the track’s energizing yet laid-back feel.
Produced by Scar, cam sos, and CA himself, “Too High” is a solid new offering from him that continues the Houston artist’s run into the new year. Check it out below and connect with CA the Don on social media for more.
Detroit artists Valid and Stretch Money are back with a new single, titled “Commentate”. Produced by Slot-A with co-production from DJ Head, the song contains a vibrant soundscape based around raw synths, hard hitting drums, and potent bass. Vocally, Valid and Stretch Money shine as they trade raw, passionate verses back and forth that demonstrate their focus as lyricists. Full of clever lines containing engaging references, their verses meld with basketball-related clips to enhance the track’s themes. All of these parts work together to create a strong cohesive whole from Valid and Stretch Money, who continue their potent run of singles ahead of their new collaborative project Bill & Isiah.
“Commentate” makes for a strong new track from Valid and Stretch Money, with critically acclaimed producer Slot-A (producer of Legacy! Legacy! by Jamila Woods) linking up with Detroit MC’s Valid and Stretch Money to deliver a unique, never been done before, gritty display of lyrical penmanship with “Commentate”. Co-produced by platinum credited Grammy-Award winning DJ Head of Shady Records, and Grammy-Award winning Anthony Rizzo, “Commentate” is a hard-hitting, memorable display of potent lyricism and slick flows.
Listen to “Commentate” here:
The duo have also released an engaging new visualizer that enhances the track’s basketball themes with a retro feel. Check it out here:
Brooklyn artist Nkosi Bourne has dropped off a new single called “Final Form”. Containing a vibrant, soulful backdrop that blends cohesively with Bourne’s thought-provoking lyricism, “Final Form” continues his prolific run and demonstrates his signature sound in the process. A motivational anthem filled with raw vocals and reaffirming lyrics, the song gives perspective on accepting where someone may be isn’t where they want, but one must continue to take steps to get their “Final Form,” aka their best self, no matter what obstacles may arise.
“Final Form” contains vivid production centred around colourful samples, warm, minimalistic percussion, and rich bass. Creating an emotive, refreshing backdrop for Bourne’s sleek, laid-back flows, the instrumentation melds cohesively with his potent vocal performance. Lyrically thoughtful and focused, “Final Form”’s depth and messaging makes it a multi-dimensional release.
Give “Final Form” a listen below and further familiarize yourself with the talented Brooklyn rapper.
Arkansas-born artist YB has shared a new single called “PLAY FOR KEEPS”. A hard-hitting song that grabbed our attention immediately with its powerful sound and poignant lyrics, “PLAY FOR KEEPS” continues his prolific run in to the new year, as he keeps feeding his fanbase with engaging songs at a rapid pace. Showcasing his ear for infectious production and sharply-crafted, thoughtful lyricism, “PLAY FOR KEEPS” is a potent song that grips the listener with its tour-de-force of sonics. With bassy, trunk-rattling 808s and sleek, menacing synths, the production creates a foreboding backdrop for YB’s intense vocals. Detailing his personal life and trials and tribulations, the single is relatable as well, connecting with listeners with its emotive, heartfelt messaging and authenticity.
The latest from YB, “PLAY FOR KEEPS” continues his fiery run and has us excited for what else may be coming from him this year. Give it a listen below.
New Jersey-based artist RUYi has surprised fans with the release of his new single “Heart of the World”. The single also features fellow Jersey artist, Nike’ the Artist.
On this 3-minute 90s-retro inspired track, RUYi and Nike’ flow effortlessly to portray a flurry of emotions- from love to hope to disappointment. Nike’ starts the song off with otherworldly vocals, which can be described of as nothing short of perfect. She talks about the steps she’s taking to gain success in music- from “one more TikTok, one more show, one more video and interview”. RUYi follows up using his verse to highlight some trials and tribulations black people face on a regular basis. To add more emphasis to his verse, RUYi dropped a skit, to accompany the single, titled “Children of the Diaspora” in which he showcases his frustration with the government due to the systems put in place, or the lack thereof.
RUYi and Nike’ showcase amazing chemistry on top of an amazing production. Make sure to check out the new single below.
Michigan native, King Madi has dropped his highly anticipated single “ringpop”. This also serves as the lead single to his upcoming alum. The single is also blessed by Minneapolis native and rising artist, Chethelyricist.
“Ringpop” is a raunchy single which is also very fun and silly. King Madi made this single cause he realized the lack/absence of love songs that don’t have an abundance of very explicit lyrics. This single is King Madi’s attempt at bringing back smooth talk- probably why both artists attack the calm instrumental with chill bars, and a laidback delivery. Both artists drop verses of affection and how they’ll like their significant other to wear their ‘ringpop’.
With the season of love everywhere, King Madi and Chethelyricist have dropped an amazing single for the occasion and with Madi’s album on the way, we’re really hyped to see what he has in store for us this 2023.
rooney toones: Both my parents were avid music listeners; mainly big fans of old Bollywood and classical Indian music, along with rock music from the 60’s like the Beatles, Pink Floyd, and The Eagles. I was in chorus for most of my time throughout middle school and high school, so I mainly started out singing and then everything went from there.
Dami: Would you say Bollywood music influenced your sound?
rooney toones: Not as much as I thought; I used to not really like Bollywood music. I thought it was super cheesy. It was then that I realized how many of the songs I grew up listening to were Bollywood samples, like Indian Flute by Timbaland, and even Toxic by Britney Spears was a Bollywood sample. I think as I got older, I started appreciating it a lot more.
Dami: What inspired you to start making music?
rooney toones: It was actually my best friend who got me into making music. He pulled up to my house one summer before my sophomore year and said that he was making an album this summer and asked if I wanted a verse on it. I got two verses in and that was the beginning of that. Granted I didn’t realize back then I wasn’t the best rapper but it was the spark that got me to where I am rn.
Dami: Would you say a lot has changed sound-wise for you since then?
rooney toones: Oh, for sure. The last few years since my junior year in college, I’ve been sampling like a mad man. It’s been a blessing honestly. I’m listening to music from all around the world from any time period. There’s a vast amount of amazing music in the world that will never see the light of day.
Dami: How would you describe your sound?
rooney toones: Very stripped back. I like to keep things simple. It leaves room for more collaboration and makes for a better song.
Dami: Who are your biggest inspirations?
rooney toones: I got a very long list honestly lol, but I’ll keep it short. Dilla, Madlib, The Alchemist, 9th Wonder, Kanye (the music, not the person), and Conductor Williams as of late cause his beats are different than anything I’ve heard in the last few years. I love Pharrell, Timbaland. Yeah, I could go on forever.
Dami: You just dropped your debut album. Tell us more about it.
rooney toones: For sure. I wanna start a series of tapes called “Rooney n Friends” where I just get my friends and any other rappers, singers or producers I meet and click with and work with them. It’s all in the love of good music. I feel like in this day and age of music, collaboration is way more important than it has ever been.
Dami: Is this album the start of the series?
rooney toones: Yeah honestly, I just wanna start putting out more tapes. Whether they’re on streaming services or on Bandcamp and SoundCloud.
Dami: Is it going to be a regular thing?
rooney toones: Yeah, I’m tryna make it one. My goal is to be more consistent with releases. We’re in an age where the more content you have out, the more success you will see. But that shouldn’t take away from the quality of the work so there’s a balance.
Dami: So, do you already have the sequel planned?
rooney toones: I’ll probably start working on it down the line. Right now, I have a few beat tapes planned out, but there is a deluxe version of “Rooney n Friends” volume 1 in the works as we speak.
Dami: What should we expect from it?
rooney toones: Just some more amazing rappers hopping on the instrumentals from the album, not gonna say who so as not to spoil the surprise.
Dami: What do you want listeners to take away after listening to your music?
rooney toones: To appreciate the friends and family around you, and to appreciate good music.
Dami: What’s your creative process like?
rooney toones: I don’t really have one locked down. I like to listen to old records and music for about an hour or two and then take inspiration from what I heard and put it into my own creations. A lot of the time I spend making music, I’m looking for cool samples.
Dami: What are 3 words you’ll use to describe your music?
rooney toones: Damn that’s tough. First word I would say is bouncy, and then I guess I’d say vibrant and just all-around fun.
Dami: Is the “Rooney n Friends” series your only planned drop for the year or do you have some extra shit planned?
rooney toones: I got a few more things I would like to drop, but nothing as big as the first “Rooney n Friends”. I’m just ecstatic that this project is out and I finally have quality piece of work out. It’s been a good week, I’ll say that.
Dami: What else you tryna achieve this year?
rooney toones: Just get more music out at the moment. I also DJ on the side so I would love to get more gigs in my city and other cities in the country.
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