Lxnny sends us on a trip through another life by stepping into the shoes of a kingpin. “Lamborghini Racers” is a wavy listen that drifts on chimes and a smooth flow.
Why We Like It: Nami’s “Who Lied To You”
On a concept project about writing and producing demos for Drake, Cape Verdean crooner Nami nails a sound that’s all his own. “Who Lied To You” wouldn’t be out of place for a worldclass popstar, but it’s an unforgettably synthy demo.
Why We Like It: Viana’s “About The Money”
On “About The Money,” Viana mires an earnest want in a consumerist sheen, creating a pop song of depth. She just wants to sing songs and feed her dog. Should that be so hard?
Why We Like It: Tall Black Guy & Ozay Moore’s “Runnin Away Ft. Malaya”
Tall Black Guy and Ozay Moore confront some of the hardest truths on “Runnin’ Away.” Bookended by spirit-gripping hooks from featured vocalist Malaya, the verses question the wisdom of fleeing from results that don’t line up with expectations.
Dirtsa’s Debut and the Duty of a Writer
‘ALETHEIA’S CALLING,’ the debut EP of Franco-Cameroonian artist and philosopher Dirtsa, is a bridge between cultures, ideas and sounds. Pulling from Greek and modern philosophy, the project is a duality of contrasting and complementary R&B and drill sounds. We spoke with Dirtsa about the truths she uncovered in its making.
Why We Like It: Mvstermind’s “MATTER OF TIME,” Ft. Jordan Ward
Over a jazzy instrumental, St. Louis’ Mvstermind and Jordan Ward trace their divergent journeys with effortless flair. “MATTER OF TIME” is a reminder that taking your time isn’t taking time off.
Why We Like It: Imp’s “Visions of DOOM”
In the title track off their new EP, “Visions of DOOM,” Imp meshes the Marvel universe with visions of the dystopian reality they see around them.
Why We Like It: ROMderful’s “ALIENS!”
ROMderful roots a cosmic background in R&B familiarity to tell a galactic love story. “ALIENS!” is a story of human connection in the stars.
Why We Like It: Kolo’s “So Far, So Close”
Nigerian-American and Atlanta wordsmith, Kolo, pens an emotional track about keeping his mind on the work. “So Far, So Close” is an expression of having faith in your purpose.
Why We Like It: Leon Ross, YS Perignon & IM REAL’s “No Invites”
A good posse cut is hard to find, but with bars, barbs and no shortage of character, Leon Ross, YS Perignon and IM REAL make it sound effortless. “No Invites” is a song for an exclusive crowd and the emcees let you know.
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