Nyc Flo brings together the classic old school weight of heartfelt, motivational hip hop, and the creatively immersive soundscapes of genres like jazz, soul, big band and afrobeat, throughout his inspiring new album AQUARIUS FEVER VOL. II.
GIFT+CURSE is the opener, a big-beat nineties hip hop flow elevated by a jazz-kissed and almost neoclassical production that’s evocative and vast. Then we move into the story details and soulful RnB backdrop of BLACK PANTHER – a quickly catchy anthem, with a soulful hook that’s instantly impactful and memorable.
Fifteen original tracks make up AQUARIUS FEVER VOL. II, an album inspired by afro hip hop and classic hip hop as much so as the artist’s own experiences in the modern world. Consider the poetic depth and tribal musical appeal of RED LIPS, a softly intoxicating highlight, and completely its own style thanks to the seamless uniting of genres and of melody and rap.
This world-music energy resounds louder still as we move into the beautifully soulful embrace of LASGIDI TRIPS, then becomes a little lighter and more dreamy, for MAD LOVE.
Other highlights include the four-chord emotional outreach of E BE LIKE SAY, a strong groove and passionate vocals carving out an inspiring and comforting lane. Then on the flip side, the grittier darkness and experimental tones of a compelling FAMILY LIES.
RISE UP also rings loud with that motivational sense of possibility, the dynamic between Nyc Flo and the featured female singer presenting an enchanting and deeply moving listen, which holds attention throughout. Then there’s the unexpectedly vintage closer BREAKIN BAD, an intimate lo-fi recording that feels like a stream of consciousness outpouring or a humble diary entry from Nyc Flo.
The calmness and vulnerability here wraps things up beautifully, letting the artist strengthen that genuine connection with his audience, reflecting on personal anecdotes as well as the bigger topics and existential considerations that unite us all. It’s a totally enthralling final track, and a lasting reminder of the emotional conviction and inherent versatility of the project.
Nyc Flo pays as much attention to the music and audience-appeal of his songs, as he does to the bars, and that’s sadly a rare quality these days. It makes this album a genuine pleasure to dive into and let play in full. It’s an uplifting, emotionally loaded but rewarding listen, and is an easy creative highlight from the hip hop fusion indie scene of late.
