Award-winning producer and indie force Big O collaborates once more this year, with New Jersey and Philly-based artist P-Rawb – this time with a fresh perspective and sound united across the vastness and deeply personal conceptual depth of Time & Space.
From the opening dramatic monologue and ambient surrounding power of Follow My Lead, the project offers a clear sense of purpose and weight, and the music that follows naturally builds upon that inspiring, empowering undertone set by the introduction.
Next we enter the Gospel-kissed evocative intensity and overcoming of Rise To The Top – strong rap bars and a classic synth-hip-hop beat from Big O, carving out more of that unique journey that is the story of both P-Rawb and Big O’s experiences over the years. Their intention is to reflect upon the musical and mental highs and lows of their lives, and the result is genuinely one of the most anthemic and musically infectious albums, as well as the most contemplative and revealing, of both of their careers.
Rise To The Top is an unforgettable early highlight, followed well by the alternative styling and thoughtful darkness to uplift of Hard Pressed. These aren’t the usual lo-fi ambient backing tracks we stumble upon, this album hits with sincere and unignorable impact, in everything from the production to the bars, the tone of voice, the passion, and – most importantly – the vulnerability and sharp, smart framing of the lyrics.
Other highlights from the upcoming album Time & Space include the iconic For The Gods, an original scratch track and boldly intelligent bars naturally drawing you in for a second and third listen. The level of conscious thought is intimidating and inspiring all at once, and the unique sound-design here helps elevate that quality in a uniquely engaging way.
The album also includes instrumental versions of each of the five new tracks, a moment to appreciate the intricacy and creativity of Big O’s approach to music production – a quality that rings loud of its own accord, through diversity and heartfelt musicality combined. In particular, Rise To The Top works beautifully as a music-only version, and the boldly unique world-music traits of For The Gods sets an equally impressive and memorable vibe.
Four years on from their first album together, Time & Space marks a triumphant return, and an unmissable testament to the talent, work ethic and progression that both P-Rawb and Big O consistently drive with. Featuring the additional talents of Fashawn, Rxlph, L.O.U., Adrienne Mack-Davis, The TBI Choir, and Decksterror, this project is an absolute must for hip hop and conscious rap fans past and present.
Album out everywhere May 9th. Find Big O on Instagram & X. Find P-Rawb on Instagram & X.
