Mon’ro captures and maintains attention with ease as this vastly creative, cinematic hip hop project hits the scene.
Blending thoughtful structuring, spoken segments and stylish sound design, with energetic bars and a varied flow for dynamic, A Long Time Coming takes on the contemporary landscape with classic confidence and clarity.
Da Intro sets the mood well, boldly introducing the vocal tone and this fusion of quirky references and personal anecdotes. Meanwhile a string-led ambience unites with a heavy beat to keep things high-octane and ready to gear you up for the long-run.
As the album goes on, creativity continues to stand out, but so does the tone and manner of crafting bars that holds true to Mon’ro’s style. Another Level is heavier conceptually, the voice familiar now, the details intriguing – the hook anthem-like.
Mon’ro switches up his flow on more than a few occasions throughout the album and indeed throughout any single track. He also toys with volume and passion, sometimes leading with quiet reflection, other times injecting absolute power and character; Big Kash, Like Dat. Before this, Moo Dat proves one of the most memorable tracks for its pace, theatrics, and stylish set-up.
It’s a fast-paced project for the most part, not too heavy intentionally but offering the late-night good vibes required to escape the intensity of the world. Imma Dog (Woof) is another simple hit of optimism and colour towards the end, a highlight for its vocal rhythm and the simple satisfaction of the beat.
Things get a little more intense for the final track, a haunting beat meets with genuine thoughts on life and struggle. Not da Same is powerful, and shines light on a whole other side to the rapper and artist. It also offers a satisfying hook, and a chance to build a real connection with the artist and his own story – personality, vulnerability, honesty.
A great way to finish, a personal favourite, and a final highlight from an album that’s an easy one to let play for classic and contemporary hip hop fans alike.
Download the album via Apple. Check out Mon’ro on Instagram.
