Taking Names offers a plethora of deeply poetic, metaphorical and impressive lyrics – the sharpness and intelligence of which permits the song the worthy status of requiring you to listen more than a couple of times to grasp every idea. There are depths to the music, and as such, each time you do revisit, the music and story hit with all the more impact.

Hip HopProducerRap

For those new to the style, you might find similar vibes amidst the hit movies of eras past – the days when street rap battles, break dancing and colourful clothes hung on the air like a stylish hit of opposition to the mundane. Reis Armstrong recaptures the purity of those days, and does so with original songwriting and a clear sense of unity and passion for the process.

Old SchoolOld School Hip HopOld School.RapRnB

The familiar ache of desperation, of inescapable self-burden, resounds throughout the fearlessly honest lyrics of the song, and the contrast between these thoughtful, clearly informed verses, and the heavier resolve of the hook, helps the topic and feeling really connect.

It’s a simple but essential take on the matter, and the music sounds immense – hopefully Better Off Alive will reach the right people at just the right time.

Hard RockMetalRock

Utilising both the French and Fongbé languages from their native Benin, Duo Landry+ underline the power and beauty of music in connecting on a profound level. There is no barrier between the band and the listeners with any other native tongue – the music is a simple joy and inspiring pleasure to listen to.

Afro SoulIndie FolkWOrld Music