Tag: rap

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Blog Roundhouse Features

Jamal J. shares cinematic, thought-provoking album ‘My Armada & the Bitter Waters of Marah’

Jamal J. has shared a new album, My Armada & the Bitter Waters of Marah. The LP follows his earlier release, Babilu (Redition), with another monumental record built with the tension, depth, and world-building of a short film. On My Armada & the Bitter Waters of Marah, each track is infused with a sense of clarity and dimension, pairing intricate, mind-expanding lyrics with elegant, ethereal instrumentals that give the album a refined, cinematic quality. Moments of rawness and haunting beauty coexist as self-aware, detailed lyrics flow across soulful, boundary-pushing production with calm, collected ease.

The hypnotic, immersive sound of Saint Kay–produced tracks like “Salmonella” and “The Titan Kronos” draws the listener into the album’s ethereal atmosphere early in the tracklist, as Jamal J. demonstrates a unique ability to weave disparate phrases and words into vivid, fresh imagery. “Dichotomy,” produced by Reallyhiiim and featuring ANKHLEJOHN, layers a shimmering, infectious loop with organic production that sits neatly beneath the emcees’ poised, memorable lines. “Mudras & Gang Signs,” featuring Israel Jones, creates a hazy, thought-provoking atmosphere, bolstered by the duo’s richly poetic verses. “Weigh Me Down,” featuring Sol Chyld, stands out near the album’s culmination with reflective lyricism atop soaring samples and organic percussion.

Both meditative and invigorating, My Armada & the Bitter Waters of Marah is a layered record that draws the listener deeper into Jamal J.’s world. He continues to prove himself as a musician who cannot be boxed in- an artist who follows his own path with conviction while delivering emotive, expressive work.

Listen to My Armada & the Bitter Waters of Marah here now:

Listen HERE on all platforms.

Connect with Jamal J.: Instagram | X

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Blog Roundhouse Features

O Dawg shares potent new single “Wake Up”

O Dawg has shared a new song, titled “Wake Up”. A Brooklyn rapper with a gift for versatility, engaging lyricism, and a naturally charismatic delivery, O Dawg has been building real momentum since his 2016 debut. His sound blends classic East Coast grit with modern influences, creating a lane that’s entirely his own- defined by strong craftsmanship, range, and an unapologetically individual voice. O Dawg’s latest song, “Wake Up”, is a potent, raw offering that harnesses his razor-sharp lyricism atop enticing, dark instrumentation from Camoflauge Monk.

“Wake Up” finds O Dawg gliding over Camoflauge Monk’s production, which is equal parts elegant and sinister- a soundscape built on gritty percussion and a rich, humming bassline that sets a tense, cinematic tone. His delivery is sharp and controlled, each bar landing with precision as he paints vivid scenes through his lyricism. The track feels like a warning and a statement at the same time- O Dawg waking the listener up to his presence, his vision, and the edge that defines his craft.

Listen to “Wake Up” here now:

Connect with O Dawg: Spotify | Instagram | X

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Blog Roundhouse Features

The engaging world-building of Eric Scott’s “Wolfstein” (ft. Smoke DZA)

Eric Scott‘s latest release, “Wolfstein”, featuring Smoke DZA, is more than just a new single- it’s an immersive offering that invites you into the world of the artist and the character he has created. “Drawing inspiration from Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein: The Man Who Made the Monster, this reimagining trades lightning bolts and laboratories for heartbreak and human emotion. In this version, Wolfstein is born from love and loss- stitched together not by science, but by sorrow- becoming something both hauntingly beautiful and deeply unsettling. It’s an angle approached with authenticity and originality, making Scott’s latest release “Wolfstein” stand out as he breaks the mold.

Sonically, “Wolfstein” is an enticing track- creeping, eerie keyboards, ghostly drums, and an ominous bass riff create the perfect backing for the track’s concept and presentation. Scott’s delivery matches the character of Wolfstein to the tee, with its mixture of emotion, hurt, and aggression. His subtle, hypnotic tone and flows add further dimensions of uneasiness to the track. Smoke DZA follows with a potent verse delivered in a similarly hushed, yet raw, tone.

The video’s high-contrast black and white aesthetic, along with its vivid, intense imagery, make for a cohesive accompaniment. Bringing the character of Wolfstein to the screen alongside companions cloaked in black, he portrays a complex and wounded character, carved from heartbreak, to create something both beautiful and terrifying.

Watch Eric Scott’s new video for “Wolfstein” here now on our platform, a single from his upcoming album Wolfstein.

Connect with Eric Scott: Instagram

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Blog Roundhouse Features

EliJah is blazing his own trail in underground hip-hop with fresh single “Function” (ft. Boldy James)

EliJah has shared a fresh new track called “Function”, featuring Boldy James. EliJah, a 23-year-old artist from Cleveland, Ohio, has been making a significant impact on the city’s music scene since emerging in 2020. Known for his authentic love of hip-hop and his willingness to experiment with diverse sounds, EliJah brings a fresh and dynamic voice to the genre.

His work has garnered attention through collaborations with notable artists such as Tony Shhnow, A$AP 12vy, and Boldy James, positioning him as one of Cleveland’s most promising young talents.

EliJah’s latest single puts his skills on display with sharp lyrical prowess, engaging, smooth flows, and hard-hitting production. Featuring hip-hop mainstay Boldy James, the track weaves together potent narratives, eclectic, infectious production, and focused songwriting for an immersive experience for the listener.

Atop glowing samples, raw percussion, and rich bass, the emcees trade memorable verses as they tackle the graceful instrumentation with ease. EliJah is an emcee who brings a powerful energy to each track that he drops, and his latest is further proof. Take a listen to “Function” here now and further familiarize yourself with EliJah.

Listen to EliJah’s music on all platforms HERE.

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Blog Roundhouse Features

Kueen releases a revitalizing summer project with ‘Got Juice?’

North Carolina born, New York based artist Kueen has returned with a new mixtape called Got Juice?. A multi-talented musician, entrepreneur and all-around hustler, Kueen has been pursuing music full-time for the better part of the decade, while she is also the CFO of innovative wellness company RAYFM. Receiving attention from some of hip-hop’s biggest names such as Pharaohe Monch, Rapsody, DJ Eclipse, as well as wide-ranging praise for eclectic projects such as Tales of Gotham, and more, Kueen has been steadily carving out a lane as an impactful, versatile voice in independent music.

Kueen’s latest project Got Juice? feels like the perfect soundtrack for a summer in New York, while maintaining a vibrant universality. Blending both influences from her North Carolina roots as well as NYC, is like a refreshing, organic dose of pure hip-hop, R&B, and soul that resonates for its sonic catchiness, spiritual depth, and dynamic versatility.

“Kleopatra’s Return” kicks off the project with a refined charisma interlaced into warm, jazz-laced instrumentation, sturdy grooves and sharply-crafted, intricate rhymes. “Give Thanks”, featuring Vibe Jonez, is a track that brings a feeling of clarity, with a spiritual, self-aware feel that transports the listener to another dimension. “D.H.A.D.” is breezy and heartfelt, featuring atmospheric guitars, rich backing vocals, and lively rhythms that complement Kueen’s smooth vocals cohesively. Tracks like “Pineapple Ginjah” and “Light my Spliff” contain a transcendent sort of beauty in their sound, adding to the overall uplifting feel of the project.

For nearly a decade, Kueen has been carving out a name for herself as a standout artist and songwriter, known for a rich, genre-blending sound that fuses hip-hop, jazz, soul, R&B, and beyond. Her work is marked by a raw authenticity- gritty and powerful, yet emotionally resonant- which has helped her build a strong and diverse following. Kueen proudly represents her Southern roots while channeling the dynamic spirit of NYC into her artistry. Beyond music, she also serves as the CFO of RAYFM Essentials, a lifestyle brand offering daily wellness products, including health juices, skincare, apparel, and more.

Listen to Kueen’s new project Got Juice? HERE on Bandcamp and support the artist directly.

Get the project on even.biz HERE.

Connect with Kueen: Website | Instagram

Visit the RAYFM store HERE.

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Blog Roundhouse Features

Valid’s New Documentary ‘PLACES’ Bridges Detroit and the Balkans Through Hip-Hop

Detroit emcee Valid has unveiled his latest project, a compelling documentary titled PLACES, chronicling his recent tour across the Balkans alongside the legendary DJ Head. Directed by Katarina Radmilović, the film offers more than just performance footage- it’s a layered, cultural exploration that highlights the universal language of hip-hop.

Produced in collaboration with Valternativa Records, PLACES takes viewers on a journey through Eastern Europe, with stops in Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia, Macedonia, Slovenia, and beyond. For Valid, the tour is deeply personal- his roots trace back to Serbia, and returning there as an artist allowed him to reconnect with his heritage in a profound way.

At the heart of the film is the merging of two worlds: the soulful grit of Detroit hip-hop and the rich musical traditions of the Balkans. Valid and DJ Head captivate audiences, many of whom are already familiar with Valid’s work. The reception speaks volumes- not only to Valid’s talent, but to hip-hop’s ability to cross borders and create genuine connection.

Early in the documentary, we learn how Valid’s journey with Valternativa Records began- through a chance connection facilitated by Ma Dukes, the mother of the iconic producer J. Dilla. This led to his collaboration with Vlada Stojanović, the label’s co-founder, who brings Valid to his hometown of Valjevo, Serbia, offering a personal lens into both Valid’s backstory and the vibrant spirit of the region.

What makes PLACES stand out is its blend of musical performance, cultural immersion, and heartfelt storytelling. Valid and DJ Head not only share the stage with well-known Balkan artists, but they also engage in meaningful exchanges with local emcees and producers who have helped shape the region’s growing hip-hop scene. These moments underscore the documentary’s central theme: hip-hop is a global force, capable of uniting people from different backgrounds through shared rhythm and raw emotion.

As much as PLACES is about music, it’s also a visual love letter to Balkan culture. The film features rich snapshots of local traditions, daily life, and the deep hospitality of the communities that welcomed Valid and DJ Head. There’s an undeniable warmth in the interactions, from backstage conversations to street-side hangouts, capturing the genuine bonds formed along the way.

PLACES is a celebration of identity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of hip-hop. For Valid, it marks not just a return to his roots, but a step forward in his artistic journey- one that invites viewers to explore what it truly means to belong, connect, and create.

You can watch PLACES now and experience the cultural and musical exchange for yourself.

Connect with Valid: Instagram | YouTube | Twitter | Facebook

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Blog For the Record

808 BEEZY shares infectious new EP, ‘4 SUCH A TIME AS THIS’

808 BEEZY has shared an infectious new EP, titled 4 SUCH A TIME AS THIS. A prolific, versatile artist who has been on a run of late, releasing potent singles like “STILL 30 FOR 30”, “Need Some Mo 2”, and more- 808 BEEZY returns once again with an energizing, emotive EP in 4 SUCH A TIME AS THIS.

The triumphant, powerful intro “GATEKEEP!” displays 808 BEEZY’s commanding flows, sharp lyricism, and engaging songwriting. The atmospheric, sweltering instrumentation of “STILL 30 FOR 30” creates an ominous, immense feel, further enhanced by 808 BEEZY’s raw vocals and focus on the mic. “THE BLOOD” makes for a passionate closer that pairs haunting, poignant production with a standout performance from 808 BEEZY that matches the track’s electrifying rhythms and sound.

The eccentric 808 BEEZY is what happens when optimism meets melodic trap. The Arkansas-raised artist wraps emotional storytelling over hard-hitting 808s. From concept to delivery, rising artist, 808 BEEZY effortlessly captivates and woos his listeners with witty punchlines and ear-grabbing production.

After undergoing a rebrand in late 2023 (formerly known as YB), the artist now producer has continued his streak of catchy releases. 10+ million independent streams later, 808 BEEZY is just getting started.

Take a listen to 808 BEEZY’s latest offering, 4 SUCH A TIME AS THIS here now:

Connect with 808 BEEZY: Spotify | Instagram

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Blog Roundhouse Features

Fuzhjin releases meditative EP ‘sun’s eternal’

Fuzhjin has dropped off a new EP, titled sun’s eternal. Hailing from Jacksonville, Florida, Fuzhjin has been consistently carving out his own lane for his introspective, vivid blend of heartfelt lyricism, and poignant, soulful production. His latest offering, sun’s eternal, continues his run of focused, character-rich releases that are often thoughtful in tone, with a set of 5 tracks that captivate throughout.

“4ward” makes for a graceful opener that conjures a subtle sense of triumph through warm horns, weaving keys, and rich rhythms that create a potent backdrop for Fuzhjin’s immersive flows. “minutes” includes a dusky, hypnotic soundscape perfectly suited to Fuzhjin’s imagery-rich, evocative verses, while “virtue”‘s layered, atmospheric sonics and sharp vocals make for a memorable listen. Closer “steps” distills the EP’s spiritual tones and themes of self-growth with intricate lyricism that brings forth a welcome sense of depth, backed by ethereal sample chops.

Listen to Fuzhjin’s latest EP sun’s eternal here now and further familiarize yourself with the rising Florida artist.

Listen on all platforms HERE.

Connect with Fuzhjin: Spotify | Instagram | X (Twitter)

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Blog Roundhouse Features

Sammyoffthewall delivers energizing EP ‘Fuera De La Pared’

Sammyoffthewall has delivered a new EP, titled Fuera De La Pared. Full of soulful, vulnerable tracks that resonate from the get-go, Fuera De La Pared provides a varied and captivating listen across its 5 tracks. Engaging grooves, layered sampling, and raw, emotive rhymes characterize Fuera De La Pared‘s sonics, while detailed, personal lyricism dominates with enriching narratives and re-playable lines.

Sammyoffthewall brings forth an energetic, passionate style on Fuera De La Pared which gives the project added character and depth. With a gritty, present flow, he attacks a series of sampling, emotive beats with ease. The title track makes for an expansive opener that sets the pace with soulful loops and introspective, commanding flows. “Slow Dance” introduces a blazing, bass-heavy instrumental with crystalline instrumentation that creates a vibrant foundation for Sammyoffthewall’s gripping verses. “Take Over” adds further dynamics and diversity with a dark, ominous boom-bap cut, while closer “The Storm”, with Isaiah Velez, makes for a particularly heartfelt finisher with its powerful sound and lyricism.

Take a listen to Sammyoffthewall’s latest EP here now and be sure to connect with him while you’re at it.

Connect with Sammyoffthewall HERE.

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Blog Roundhouse Features

Boot Raymond shares soulful new album ‘maim’

Rising rapper Boot Raymond has dropped off a new album called, maim. Coated with an air of warm nostalgia, and paired with vividly detailed, personally rich lyrics- maim makes for a thought-provoking and immersive listen. Showcasing Raymond’s innate lyrical ability atop a set of abstract, soulful instrumentals, the album draws the listener in from the get-go with its emotive feel.

Opener “black sambas”, with KIDD, uses a pastiche of layered sampling and gritty, organic percussion to create an apt backdrop for Raymond’s imagery-laden poetics. “ego trip”‘s weaving, psychedelic production provokes deep thought while Raymond reflects on his past, and how it brought him to where he is now, as well as his hopes for the future- making for a relatable cut. “fein4love”, mixed by @croko.moko, makes for an uplifting offering and a project highlight, with cathartic vocals that ring out clearly, chalk full of emotion. The hypnotic feel and lucid lyricism of “another praise” feels laid-back and pensive, with a certain soulful wistfulness that shows up throughout maim and gives it its own character.

Boot Raymond’s latest offering maim is a heartfelt project full of enticing moments that draw the listener into his world. It paints a personal portrait in a vivid manner while demonstrating sharp lyricism and a keen ear for engaging instrumentation. Listen to maim here now.

Cover art by @who.azan