Category: Reviews

Ammar Jafri – Flex (Review)

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FLEX, FLex, Flex, flex..

Hailing from Islamabad and making waves in Berlin’s hip-hop scene, Ammar Jafri delivers a uplifting, distinctive track with “Flex.” His signature flow stands out with a unique variety while the playful pitch pattern in the chorus, which subtly dips with each note, adds an infectious touch. Driven by an uplifting beat laced with drill elements, the track weaves in a captivating two-meter exotic riff that gives it a melodic edge. A masterful blend of East and West, impossible to ignore.

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The Dirty Sample – The Darkness [Review]

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The Dirty Sample’s “The Darkness” is an atmospheric instrumental hip hop production that lures you into its eerie, suspense-filled universe with its spooky, hypnotic piano riff. It’s a slow, deliberate build, maintaining its chilling tension from start to finish, as if Michael Myers himself is at home, methodically sharpening his blade, preparing to step into the Halloween night. Simple, minimal yet effective—each note echoes like footsteps in an empty, darkened hallway. Listen while waiting for the inevitable shadow to emerge from just beyond the door.

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Sicko – GBH (do you ever just) [Review]

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Do you ever just look at someone and think: “f**k, I’d love to punch you in the face”

“GBH (do you ever just)” by Sicko is a raw, anger-driven track that captures the essence of frustration. The lyrics, filled with venom, resonate with anyone who’s had enough of holding back. Sicko’s flow is sharp, matching the intensity of the emotion, while the constant sirens in the background add an extra layer of tension. The production features a melancholy piano line that complements the old-school vibe, yet not dated. A powerful anthem for those who are done with words, sadly, it fits really well with the dark times we’ve experienced in the UK this past week. Fight back!

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Larry Coleman 2020 – The Art of War [Review]

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Larry Coleman 2020 is an independent hip-hop artist from Las Vegas, who gained prominence on Soundcloud and through collaborations with Bay Area legends and other notable artists, known for his “Hunger Games Series” that reflects his Detroit roots and West Coast influences, and recently sold out his Hunger Games Tour.

His newest track, “The Art of War,” highlights his lyrical skill with clever lines and powerful punches, and includes a feature from Flint, Michigan’s Jon Connor. The instrumental, characterized by a two-chord arpeggio, creates an atmospheric soundscape that complements the heavy on bass beat. The track’s structure is engaging, with a groove switch in the middle, adding to its dynamic feel. Listen below!

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Sorg & Napoleon Maddox – If You [Review]

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Describe your sound in 3 words

Soulful, grooves, authentic

How did you meet and form Sorg & Napoleon Maddox?

Connecting through social medias in 2013 to compose the duo’s first track « Wild West ».

Tell us a few things about “If You”. What is the main idea behind it?

The main idea behind “IF YOU” is that we will all at some point find ourselves in need of a hand to lift us up from a difficult place in life. As much as we need to be lifted, we also need to be there for other people who need lifting, and understanding this is life greatest treasure.

How do you navigate the intersection of music and social commentary in your work?

We look for the personal connections. We look for our own vulnerabilities and unanswered questions when we approach subjects. This is power of art, so that social commentary can move us emotional and is more that words, critique and judgement.

Are there specific messages or narratives that you feel are particularly important to convey through your art?

As we aren’t working on a singular platform as a politician or sells person might do, we don’t have fixed narratives to convey, but in general we are talking about liberation and redistribution of powerful from the oppressor, back to the oppressed.

For which lyric you are most proud of?

At the moment, they are “IF YOU” “UJFP” and “SHARK MEN”

Favourite rapper, lyricist and producer?

No best, no favourite.. but iconics !
Rappers : Nas, Common, Anderson Paak., … Producers : DJ Premier, RJD2, Hit Boy, …

What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?

Unity, original, and resistance

What isn’t a crime but should be?

Environmental disrespect

Thank you!

Main Text

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Born I – Koan [Review]

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Born I, also known as Ofosu Jones-Quartey, is a rapper and meditation teacher from the Washington DC area. His mantra, “You Are Enough,” reflects his positive outlook and serves as a guiding principle. As a versatile lyricist, Born I effortlessly navigates through various genres while consistently showcasing his powerful lyrical skills.

In the track “Koan,” Born I delivers an authentic piece characterized by his sincere flow. The track is distinguished by a consistent melodic theme in the instrumental, featuring nostalgic high-pitched manipulated vocal samples. The organic incorporation of the piano contributes to the overall texture, and a deep bass line serves as a cohesive element. Born I poses thought-provoking questions once again. Who is the student, who is the master? Click play. The answer lies within.

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Nate Rose – LEVEL UP (Survivor’s Guilt) [Review]

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Nate Rose takes his game to the next level with the deeply personal new song titled “LEVEL UP (Survivor’s Guilt),” delving into themes of family trauma, ethical and moral questions, and a stark juxtaposition of the circumstances facing him and his old friends. This powerful track is marked by some fire, minimal 808s in the beat and showcases a skilled, heavilly eq flow with remarkable variety, presenting an honest and raw work of art.

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Filmore! – MENACE [Review]

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Irish singer, songwriter, rapper, and visual artist Max Zanga, aka as Filmore! collaborates with Uppbeat showcasing his signature delivery with “MENACE,” a track featured on his self-titled mixtape. This aggressive hip hop tune seamlessly incorporates Nu Metal influences, adding an edgy and dynamic dimension to the music. Beyond its intense sound, “MENACE” delves into themes of introspection and self-doubt, delivered with a fiery vocal performance that demands attention. The ingenious fusion of an intriguing synth riff with the solid guitars, creating a powerful project that pushes boundaries.

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Aminata – What’s Magic? [Review]

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Hailing from Canada, Aminata showcases her irresistibly chill work delivering some serious laid back vibes. The artist’s delivery has a straight, to the point, spoken word touch. The warm detuned synth chords in the instrumental create a distinctive presence, harmoniously mingling with the lofi beat and the pleasantly subdued bass line. What’s Magic? Aminata has the answer for you. Click play below!

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Onesapa x Laura Picar – On my Way [Review]

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Onesapa, the Singer and songwriter from the Netherlands with Moluccan and Dutch Indian roots teams up with Laura Picar, coming with the attitude for On my Way, an uplifting hip hop tune with playful old school vibes. Delivery is really wavey enriched with clean vocals in the chorus. The instrumental features a distinctive synth riff that dances between two semitone chords. Lyrically the song revolves around themes of self-confidence, artistic identity, and a determination to stand out. The project is accompanied by a video clip that captures the classic atmosphere of the track. It’s time to play. Listen below!

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