Mach II by Keko

Keko can’t be of this world. His latest EP Mach II feels as if he has traveled in and out of this galaxy searching for the perfect sound. The first song of the EP “Pull Up” has that futuristic, yet minimal sound. It’s the best balance of upbeat but methodical. Production isn’t just slapped together on this project. Keko stacks styles to keep in his arsenal throughout the EP. There isn’t just one style of Hip Hop that Keko ventures in, his music can appeal to the masses.

The EP features the single “Bon”, a melodic and relatable track about Keko’s step up as a young man and artist. His sound is constantly growing. Keko has never been shy about putting out something different. This experimenting helped bring this project into existence. The final song on the EP “Smooth Words” is a bold and refreshing Pop sound that most Hip Hop artists wouldn’t touch, but it seems like anything Keko touches turns to gold.

Click here to listen to Mach II on SoundCloud.

JETSKI by Internet Money ft. Lil Mosey & Lil Tecca

Internet Money never fails to sense exactly what the world needs to hear. Their newest single “JETSKI” is electric and vibrant enough to ignite that summer energy that’s bubbling inside all of us. Led by Taz Taylor, and following their RIAA certified gold album B4 The Storm, Internet Money has been on track to be the biggest producer-driven collective to touch the Billboard charts. This single has accumulated over four million streams on Spotify alone on its debut. With stellar credits, including Lil Mosey and Lil Tecca, it’s hard to see this track not climbing the charts.

Click here to listen to “JETSKI” anywhere

BIGBABYGUCCI’s Assume The Worst

BIGBABYGUCCI had fans on their toes as his sixth studio project neared its official release. Assume The Worst is coming with only a few weeks' notice since the Atlanta rapper has now fortified on the West Coast. This move to California could only add variety and vibrance to his music. This project was recorded in Hollywood, mixed and mastered entirely by Better Temperatures’ engineer and producer, Joe Dirt. Producer Fish is also returning alongside longtime creative partner BIGBABYGUCCI. 

BIGBABYGUCCI could write the playbook on how to keep fans engaged and interested. His social media is filled with teasers and updates. And release dates are never too far apart. In fact, on the eve of Assume The Worst release, he released the single “Unhealthy”, accompanied by a music video directed by Keaton Jones. The ominous and eye-catching video is an excellent appetizer as fans anticipated the main course.

BIGBABYGUCCI keeps everything open and on the table, but manages to keep all the big surprises behind closed doors. Whether it’s a new single to hold fans over until his next project or using his platform to create his label, there’s always something for fans to enjoy. His ventures into physical CD sales and merchandise as an independent artist is a feat only few can do for themselves. BIGBABYGUCCI has triumphed since his separation from his label years ago. Now, he’s living any independent artists’ dreams.

Click here to listen to Assume The Worst.

A QUICK CONVERSATION WITH QEW LLC

Everyone wants to rocket to the top, but it’s the continuous practice that makes you the greatest. QEW LLC is a rapper from Atlantic City who embodies determination. With one project and quite a few singles on his discography, he’s focused on always elevating his talent. His Let’s Feast album features a more boom-bap style of hip hop while his newer music takes on an all new sound. I had the opportunity to talk to him and better understand his love for the craft and how he’s so open to change.

What’s the story behind your name and the start of you creating music?

QEW: QEW is my initials. I want to be recognized as a musical business and thats where the LLC comes from. I’ve been creating music since the late 90s. I was a young child recording myself on a karaoke machine using cassette tapes. I was born into music honestly.

You’ve evolved since your Let’s Feast EP, what’s the biggest change you’ve noticed in yourself?

QEW: Nothing really changed. It is more about timing. Let’s Feast is more of a time stamp and introduction for the people to reference. I am just turning up my content as time goes on.

A lot of your music has galactic and extraterrestrial influences, how did your love for space start?

QEW: Books. I just read, read, read.

What authors or books particularly inspire you?

QEW: I get my inspiration from Occult, Esoteric, and Spiritual books.

Have you ever battled with sticking to your old school, lyrical style and making music that fits mass appeal?

QEW: No. I just fuse the two. I found a way to balance it out.

Your music never fails to elevate the energy in a room. What is it about high tempo tracks that captures your interest?

QEW: It allows me to push more lyrics out in a shorter time.

Are you open to making slower, more melodic music?

QEW: I have made and I am currently making slower more melodic music. I am really calculated with my music so I’m just waiting for the right time to release them.

You have a few collaborations under your belt now, do you have any plans for more in the near future? Anything new with someone we’ve heard before?

QEW: Yes! I want to work with everyone as long as it makes sense to my brand and musically. Not that I know of but I am open and available.

What can listeners expect to here next from you? Any projects for summertime?

QEW: I am about to shift into a more club, house party, vibe out type of zone for the summertime. I will be releasing them in single form. Stay Tuned!!

Click here to listen to QEW LLC anywhere.

333 by Lil Turbo

Lil Turbo isn’t taking any time off and isn’t let his opposition rest on his new single “333”. His fast-paced lyrics and determination make this track a head-knocker. “Get straight to business. Know that I do not play.” Nothing’s stopping his focus. As Spring is coming, this is the exact energy that we as listeners need from the underground. Lil Turbo brings his best on all of his releases, hopefully, this will set the tone for this year.

Click here to listen to “333” anywhere.

this is the last time by pulp

pulp has put their fantastic spin on The National’s  “this is the last time”. pulp gives the song more longing and a feeling of grief, bringing down the tempo. They speak not-so fondly of, but mesmerized by, “Jenny”. pulp generates a sorrowful tone with slow, dark piano chords. The National’s thoughtful, woeful lyrics are paired with their dreary tone. “I wish everybody knew what’s so great about you. But your love is such a swamp. You don’t think before you jump.” “this is the last time” is similar to a mantra, or a promise to yourself. pulp shows off their creative directing skills and pays homage to the band with this cover of a classic.

Click here to listen “this is the last time” on SoundCloud.

W!ld C4rd by G.Soulow

 

G.Soulow is putting the finishing touches on his discography for the year. His latest EP, W!ld C4rd, puts his growth and evolution as an artist in 2020 on full display. It’s full of high energy, catchy bars, and new lines to take with you. Lyrically, he’s only surpassed his previous projects. His dedication to Hip Hop’s fundamentals allows him to excel when he infuses his writing with a modern sound. The EP is also completely self-produced. This combination of talents gives G.Soulow an advantage over most independent artists. Taking on both fields places him in a category of artist-producers such as Kanye West, Tyler the Creator, and even Chief Keef. Ultimately, only time will tell where we’ll see G.Soulow next, but it seems he may be hard to ignore by then.

Click here to listen to W!ld C4rd anywhere.

Lifestyle by Joony

There’s a point where the journey becomes a bit mundane and some get stuck in a rut. Joony, in his latest music video for “Lifestyle”, lives through that boredom. His unbothered and nonchalant flow makes it seem like the money, nice cars and clouds of smoke are habitual. The life some are trying to obtain is what Joony does on a regular, and he’s still not satisfied. The video, shot by Tyler Kendall, has a warm and euphoric essence, making this lifestyle all the more dreamlike.

Click here to watch the “Lifestyle” music video.

Break Dat Bank by Lil Turbo

Lil Turbo has been releasing hits to break the seal on mainstream music and his latest single “Break Dat Bank” has placed him one step closer. The song, produced by Lukrative, features fast snares and bouncy drums. Lil Turbo has a villainous tone as he talks about avoiding the feds, fighting off racists, and still making a bag. The song and its chorus are catchy, making it hard to skip and even harder not to add to your playlist.

Click here to listen to “Break Dat Bank” anywhere.

The Fall Selection by Ty Sorrell

The Fall Selection is tranquil and revitalizing listening experience. Ty Sorrell begins the project with a classic approach to rap; a sample, some boom bap, a polished flow and something weighing on his chest. This style continues into the second track “Society” but features sporadic sounds of cash registers and a faster pace. Much like the race for riches. Ty teams up with Rob Gibsun and Prof. Ant for “House of Wax”.  The beat is more sinister and their flows are heavier, more serious. Their energy mimics old school villains, monologging about their evil plans. The project shifts in tone from here, “A Gateway” sounds much like the better path for the characters we met before. Ty speaks as a more enlightened self, schooling maybe the audience or his younger himself. The project comes to a close with “Autumn’s Work” featuring clwdwlkr.  They talk about setting a seed and leave you with a mesmerizing message to help it grow this fall.

Click here to listen to The Fall Selection anywhere.

Just Another Melody by The Underd0g

 Told her not to fall in love with me 

The Underd0g hasn’t had the best luck with love. One of his latest singles “Just Another Melody” details his love life. Fans love him, through his music and sometimes a bit more candidly on the road. But it’s all very surreal. The fame doesn’t fix all of his problems and finding real connections can be even harder.

Heart’s frozen. They been hating on me. I don’t know them. I’ll be sad and lonely. Til the world ends 

The Underd0g almost masks the underlying despairing lyrics by pitching his vocals higher and using lighthearted guitar chords, hints of soft synth and simple snares and claps. It gives the essence of floating, which seems to be something The Underd0g would much rather do.

Click here  to listen to “Just Another Memory” on SoundCloud.

Demons & Monsters by 347Aidan

Layers and raw vocals, that’s what brings 347Aidan’s last single “Demons & Monster” its eery and enticing appeal. The young artist has a specifically raspy voice that creates its own ambiance when harmonious. The acoustic guitar grounds the song as the bass carries you through an array of emotions portrayed by 347Aidan. He reveals who’s truly corrupt and evil in society, all wrapped in an infectious chorus. It’s the monsters that run the world.

Click here to listen to “Demons & Monsters” anywhere.

Life’s Hard, Love Hurts by Lil Sad Boi

Life’s Hard, Love Hurts is a raw and organic EP created by Lil Sad Boi. He expresses his emotions fully, shouting out legends before him such as Lil Peep and XXXTENTACION that used their emotion as slates or mirrors for their music. Lil Sad Boi connects through the most human emotions: loss, heartbreak, and wanderlust. He’s searching for the answers that many of us are diving into. Each song, from “X Wing” to “Cali Girl” is a reflection of a love lost or barely able to come to fruition. This project is definitely residing in the realm of Emo Rap. Lil Sad Boi manages to put his mind and way of expression on the line to make a masterpiece fit for those feeling a little too lonely.

Click here to listen to “Life’s Hard, Love Hurts” on SoundCloud.

Crash Tonight by Funeral

“Crash Tonight” is the first song I’ve ever heard from North Carolina rapper Funeral, but it definitely won’t be the last. Emotional music has always been a staple in popular music, but now it’s merging into Hip Hop more than ever before. Funeral is a part of a generation of artists that enjoys being vulnerable, and despite the genres' harder history, has a deep connection and talent for Hip Hop. “Crash Tonight” has crass and worn vocals mixed with hyper pop distortion and frankly dark lyrics. Similar to mega artists like Trippie Redd and the late Juice WRLD, Funeral in “Crash Tonight” manages to take a subject matter that would usually be grim and makes it rhythmic and brighter than the assumed emotions and story behind it. Funeral and his SoundCloud listeners would agree, he’s on the verge of a blowup.

Click here to listen to “Crash Tonight” on SoundCloud.

Trapatar by Keko

How is he not famous yet? 

That was my initial thought after listening to the opening track of Trapatar by Keko. The Atlanta rapper’s latest project has all the trappings of any artist you’d see in a Cole Bennett music video or featured on the next Drake single. Keko has a casual and almost childish cadence, one somewhat akin to Lil Yachty’s low but childlike voice. Keko sets himself apart from most with his approach, acting as if each instrumental is an opponent. He wants to have the best flow for each sound or style he’s working with- at least that’s how it sounds. This allows him to rap on the heavy trap and drill beats as well as some of the less conventional styles. Each track on his new EP hits differently, but it’ll only draw you in more.

Click here to listen to Trapatar on SoundCloud 

No Hook by BunnyTheDon

BunnyTheDon keeps a tight grip on her cash and an even tighter grip on the industry. Her new single and visual “No Hook” is sure to lure in more listeners. Similar to the music video, shot by FilmedByTylan, BunnyTheDon is a woman in a predominantly male game. She finds confidence is proving herself. Her lyrics aren’t copied and her drive to be better than the boys at this is genuine. As a Maryland native and a boisterous MC, she’s sure to have fans all across the country in no time.

Click here to watch the “No Hook” music video on YouTube.

Since99 is At The Forefront of A New Wave

No matter how you feel about Since99’s cadence, he has the beats, punchlines and puns to demand his respect as an artist. Layer his lyricism on top of an impressive, bouncy beat and you conjure a majority of his latest work, high energy, but somehow monotone hits. Since99 continues to embrace what makes him stand out from the typical rapper persona. There’s no gimmick. His songs stay true to him and cause the same characteristics that some doubt him for, to be his strong suit. It’s a sort of “nerdy” rap that’s hard to pin down. With Hip Hop in the hot seat of popular music, the genre is bound to be molded and morphed as it evolves. Since 99, however, has solidified himself as a historical figure in the emergence of this newer genre.

Click here to listen Since99 on SoundCloud.

A QUICK CONVERSATION WITH CHLOE RAIN

Chloe Rain wrote her debut album for her, but she also wrote it for you. Each song is an extension of an emotion that we all feel. It’s the sadness of being cheated out of happiness or a glimmering opportunity, Unfair is a heartfelt and selfless display of love and growing pains. Although not perfectly polished, Chloe Rain and her friends of artist make this project a stepping stone for her musical career and what fans can anticipate.  

What encouraged you to make Unfair your debut album instead of a mixtape or EP?

CHLOE: i originally planned on making it another ep, but as the tracks came to be, i knew that myself and the people involved were album material. i also wrote the whole album in four days so i acknowledged how natural it was coming to me and took that as the universes way of saying, this is it. but what really pushed me was once i listened to it front to back for the first time i just knew it was my debut album.


What have you learned about yourself as an artist while creating this album?

CHLOE: i learned that i can do a lot more styles than i think i can, ikyk was the first time i wrote over a beat like that, and the lyrics literally slipped off of my tongue. i also learned that i’d rather put out a big project than a bunch of little ones, i like to tell a story through my art and although i can do it in four minutes, why limit it to that.


COVID-19 has ruined plans for millions. Did you experience any complications due to quarantine during the process?

CHLOE: honestly not really, i’ve been pretty lucky because most of what i do has been online so far the only semi complication, was i thought i had the virus so i couldn’t sing for about a week, but i ended up just having a cold thankfully. but that was the 5th day of working on it so the day after writing all those songs all i wanted to do was record but i knew it would only make recovery longer

Any plans for visuals in the future, this year or next?

CHLOE: i have a video in the works right now, and i plan on doing more in the next year or so, i have a lot of ideas in my head, i just need to work on bringing them to life

Is there a story behind the song “Asshole”?

CHLOE: asshole is just a song that i felt like everyone could relate to. i’ve done wrong like everyone, but i feel like you do one thing and everyone paints you out to be the bad guy. it was kind of my way of beating everyone else to it because i knew the people who this album was about would hit me up or throw shade and i had a song on the album to hit them with what i assumed they were thinking. & a song to the haters. 

Have you felt any pressure to meet or exceed standards while releasing your music?

CHLOE: honestly, no.i’m to a point in my craft where i can bump my own songs and love on them. i knew putting this project out no matter what the numbers said or who loved it, i was confident in my craft. and it was more than good enough.

What can we expect from for the rest of the year?

CHLOE: i have a lot planned, i’d except some singles, and potentially another ep.

Click here to listen to Chloe Rain anywhere.

No Average by Digital Dior ft. Yung Gosse

 

Music label Digital Dior has taken visible steps within the industry to make themselves a household name. Their latest release “No Average”, featuring Yung Gosse and production by Papi and Rich Illuminati is a fierce leap forward. The single holds the essence of UK Drill, popularized in the US by late rapper Pop Smoke. Between Papi and Rich Illuminati, they’ve managed to conger dark energy through heart-thumping bass and adding a more sinister tone via a synth. Lyrically, Digital Dior and Yung Gosse hit it right on the head. The tempo is quick but cold. “No Average” delivers as a complete and mindful body of work with a clear message: we’re coming for you.

Click here to listen “No Average” on YouTube.

I Can’t Smoke In The Gallery by Pulp

“I Can’t Smoke In The Gallery” is a slow and solemn track essential for moments when you just need to unwind. The grave bpm of the beat is hypnotic and Pulp’s soft vocals are meditative. The piano chords and drum beats can only best describe a sunny park scene. Pulp manages to create layers within the song, each with their own experience. Although the track has such light and optimistic tones, the lyrics hold a contrasting tale. You may just have to take another listen.

Click here to listen to “I Can’t Smoke In The Gallery” anywhere.