From the opening chaos and melodic distortion of the soundtrack, through a bold and confident introduction, James delivers a heavy, intense flow, and an anthem of a track that effectively breathes energy and optimism into the classic hip hop landscape of self-confidence and ambition.
Rebecca Cullen
Skillfully balancing hints of experimentation, genre-blending and world-music-inspired energy, Avkash Mann’s single Dreams proves all at once softly emotive and creatively refreshing.
Though the opening moments emerge soaked in rock authenticity, the latter half undoubtedly allows hindsight to describe them as softer, milder, and merely a taste of what’s to follow.
The stories and concepts, the feelings, at work throughout this project, pour through in bright and mighty ways – each composition presenting a unique journey for listeners to embark upon.
Fresh from the album Love Songs To Die 2, and featuring the delicately soulful vocals of Gilda Betancourt, producer NOSTROMO showcases impeccable sound design and dance prowess with this single.
AMEL D whispers truthfully, then screams out on our behalf as this heavy and awakening hook kicks into gear.
Bringing through perhaps his most stunning, multi-layered soundscape yet, and fusing this with a quickly addictive, anthem-like vocal line – offering both melody and spoken word in rhythmic, infectious doses – Double Up takes hold from the offset; and refuses to let go until the journey is over.
These are hip hop hits for the modern listener, and the album in full makes for an eclectic yet welcoming, calming playlist of fresh expression and finely crafted vibes.
The whole thing sounds fit to grace the hip hop landscape of these final moments from 2019, and at the same time, it works well to introduce the vocal tone, writing style and intentions of a hard-working New York artist.
Leaning with ease towards the nostalgic smooth vibes of artists like Verb T, Get High offers an anthem for easy living, laid-back good times and relaxing into the day. It’s a refreshing alternative to the weight of the world, and the soundscape and vocal performances alike feed into the overall mood brilliantly.
This is a rare kind of music that you can actually create your own art or music in the company of, without feeling distracted or overly influenced. It works for you, not against you.
Those of us who once reveled in the dreamlike delicacy of alternative, ambient electronic music – trip hop escapism from the likes of Lemon Jelly – will quickly find something to love about this release.