Last month, a wave of powerful music emerged, united by a common theme: personal growth and transformation. From introspective reflections to bold declarations, these six albums offer a diverse yet interconnected exploration of self-improvement. Below you’ll find 6 projects that inspired me enough to express some words about them. *an additional 33 recommended projects @ end of page.
MARIO DANTE by NOM DE GUERRE x Vuyo MARIO DANTE is a fusion EP created by Vuyo and Ultraposh, collectively known as NOM DE GUERRE. Vuyo first caught my attention on Ol' Burger Beats' album, 74: Out of Time. Their track, "Stories" featuring J'Von, quickly became a personal favorite and led me to follow Vuyo's career and eagerly anticipate his solo work.
MARIO DANTE, Vuyo's latest EP, showcases a unique fusion of Hip Hop and House music, offering a fresh and invigorating listening experience. While the album may deviate from expectations, it remains undeniably enjoyable. The energetic collaboration between the two genres creates a captivating atmosphere, reminiscent of a seasoned uncle or aunt sharing their wisdom with a talented nephew or niece.
The album's roots can be traced back to the rich tapestry of musical influences that shaped hip-hop, including jazz, blues, funk, soul, and dub. This lineage highlights the genre's diverse heritage and its ability to evolve and adapt. Their innovative approach to blending these genres results in a truly fun and energetic album that is sure to resonate with music lovers.
They Ain't Want Us by Wakai They Ain't Want Us by Baton Rouge, LA artist Wakai is a vulnerable and honest offering that explores the soul of a young artist. The album revolves around his conceptualization and expression of the world around and within him. Moments feel like a poetry reading, some like therapy sessions, and others offer advice to those who may come after or are adjacent. The project features several talented soulful artists, including 3LISE, Sedona, and the infamous Planet Giza, who recently released an EP.
Everything about this project is beautiful, from the soundscape, content, delivery, melodies, and flow. A significant portion of contemporary Hip Hop and Rap music that upholds traditional values is emerging from the South, from Tennessee to Texas to Georgia to Louisiana. This project is another testament to the exceptional Hip Hop music and aesthetics that have come out of the South in recent years.
Some Losses Set You Free by Gary Junior "I'm not back, I'm better."
If there's one artist truly and consistently improving their craft, look no further. This is a significant step forward for Gary Junior. The rhymes and hooks are tight, the soundscape offers variety but aligns in a way that allows Gary to express several stories in different ways. There's an underlying cohesion beyond the artist's voice; it's simply an improvement. It's obvious that the artist had to shed many layers and personas to find this sound and thrive in it. You strive for it and then thrive in it.
A hustler's lifestyle, once annotated in a notebook, is now expressed through Hip Hop from The Bay Area, California.
shit ain't funny anymore by Jiles Jiles' shit ain't funny anymore is a thought-provoking 3-track EP that showcases his distinctive, gritty delivery. The opening track, featuring RnB artist Notebook P, offers a surprising contrast to Jiles' usual sound, creating a more reflective atmosphere. The EP's lyrics delve deeply into themes of societal change and personal growth, exploring the complexities of human experience.
The Brockton artist's introspective tone and heartfelt delivery make the EP a compelling listen. He navigates the boundaries between being a human and simply a person, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of life. The EP's cohesive nature and solemn tone reflect Jiles' thoughtful exploration of these theme.
Desert Camo by Oliver The 2nd x Heather Grey
Desert Camo, a collaborative album by Fontana, CA artist Oliver the 2nd and Rochester, NY producer Heather Grey, is a standout project. While the duo's name is the same as the album title, the music itself offers a unique listening experience.
Oliver the 2nd's lyricism is a highlight, as he skillfully navigates complex themes without overwhelming the listener. His words are both personal and relatable, allowing listeners to connect on a deeper level. Just as desert camouflage allows its wearer to blend into a specific environment, the album's characters often must adapt to navigate challenging circumstances. The lyrics, like the patterns within desert camo, may initially seem straightforward but reveal deeper meanings and emotions upon closer examination. The album's themes of isolation and resilience echo the vast and desolate nature of desert environments, suggesting that individuals must often persevere and find strength within themselves to overcome adversity.
Desert Camo is a positive expression of struggles, challenges, and unwavering dreams. The album oozes ambition and reflection, exploring both personal and societal themes through creative social commentary.
ADVENTURE by Calvin Valentine x Lawz Spoken
Oregon artists, Calvin Valentine and Lawz Spoken have teamed up once again to deliver another pristine Hip Hop project from the Pacific Northwest. ADVENTURE is filled with endless raps about mountains, weed, and camping, this album is a celebration of outdoor life. The chorus/hook of "Raging Rapids" is so catchy it could easily be used in outdoor commercials.
The transition from "Raging Rapids" to "Land Cruiser Lawz" is seamless, with a Land Cruiser ad leading into a track about importing and customizing the iconic vehicle. ADVENTURE is a fascinating blend of outdoor enthusiasts and Hip Hop heads. These "fly outdoorsmen" have a suave demeanor and a unique way of moving.
The project is incredibly cohesive, with each track flowing seamlessly into the next, creating a collection of interconnected stories. The outro of "Land Cruiser Lawz" features a clip about not needing excessive bass, which perfectly sets the stage for the substantial bassline in "Heavy Terrain" featuring Illa J and Frank N Dank. This attention to detail makes the album even more intriguing. Even in tracks like "Incline Village," the artists' love for off-roading vehicles shines through, reminiscent of Young Dolph's "16 Zips." While the coasts, pace of life, and environments differ, the underlying connection in terms of lyrics and lifestyle is undeniable.
Scattered throughout the album are ads for Range Rover and other off-roading vehicles, creating a vibrant backdrop for the "outdoorsmen" raps. This project is not only cohesive but also positive, showcasing a different lifestyle and approach to music.
ADDITIONAL RECS:
Love (the) Ominous World by Blu x Exile
The Ballad of D.B. Looper by SadhuGold
HULK THA HUSTLA by Jae Hussle x Manzu Beatz
Connect Four by Kaleo Jacobs x Chandler Ward
Long Kiss Goodnight by Rocky Rivera
Bury My Heart In East Oakland by Nimsins x jooneyor
A Quarter to a Quarter Mill by Wave Parker x Sir WNDR
Yvette by Kaicrewsade
Speak On It by Tspokes
GOT FOOD AT THE CRIB'!!!! VOL. 4 by Pink Siifu
Courtleigh Chemist by Daniel Son x FINN
Hope U Feel The Same by SOUNDSLIKETC
Cast Out Of Hell by Hell’z OWN x Don Carrera
A Place To Hide by DVNTBEATS
Born In It 3 by Chippass
The One They Doubted by Stixx x Sledgren
Bordeaux by OG x buddy.not.bud
Griotes of the 3rd Rail by Vega7 The Ronin x Ayo Shamir
Cavi En Cursive by Trizz x MIKE SUMMERS D.O.L.L.A.R. by Malz Monday
Throwing Bows by Monaleo Pumpkin Seeds by Wiseboy Jeremy x Kirti Pandey Big 3 by 3wayslim
U hear Me 2 by Streets Soprano x Black Soprano Family
HUNGRY $iNCE BIRTH by Sauce Heist
HEATHEN by Von Alexander
Hello, I Must Be Going by Greg Cypher
GOD, Turn Me Up! by Mat Randol
Where’s Your Feet? by Lord Apex x El Lif Beats
JONDO3 by BoriRock x DVNTBEATS
A Cold Summer by KNGSOL x TWSB
Nocturnal Hooli, Vol. 3 by Da Flyy Hooligan x Wun Two x Taurean sax FINEST DIAMONDS III by KHEYZINE
For access to the document with 120+ LP / EP / mixtapes and demos inquire via email: crownthement@gmail.com
WORDS BY JAMEKA
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