A selection of new and/or relevant Hip-Hop and rap-leaning tracks that have recently left an impression on us. For the full playlist click here.
Super Saiyan Jay – “Staying In”
Amid winter’s bitter embrace, there are moments when all I crave is the solace of home—wrapped in a cosy blanket, lost in my deepest thoughts. Super Saiyan Jay, the wordsmith from West Palm Beach, gives us “Staying In,” the perfect soundtrack to celebrate voluntary isolation. Produced by Jacko, the lo-fi beat sits somewhere between laptop electronica, trap and jazz, creating an intoxicating backdrop for Jay‘s deliberately articulated verses. Each word sits in the pocket, striking a balance between laid-back vibes and captivating allure. In “Staying In,” Super Saiyan Jay not only celebrates the joy of solitude but elevates slacking around into a genuine art form.
Proklaim – “Vamos“
At Cougar Microbes, we pride ourselves on discovering talent from all over the globe, yet I am certain that we have yet to feature an artist from Namibia. This all changes with the arrival of Windhoek-based Proklaim who storms onto our radar with “Vamos,” a musical expedition seamlessly blending Amapiano and Gqum with hip-hop lyricism. Throughout Proklaim‘s vocals are crisp and flowing, effortlessly riding the arrangement. Picture him as a “musical nomad,” navigating diverse cultural landscapes and weaving the rhythmic tapestry of his influences. For us this isn’t a mere box-ticking exercise; the track proves that outstanding music transcends borders. “Vamos” is a genre-embracing journey worth undertaking.
03 Greedo – “Recess“
03 Greedo‘s “Recess” unfolds as an exultant melody, offering a vivid journey into the LA rapper’s resilient spirit. Emerging from a stint in jail, Greedo’s return is marked by buttery flows and rhythmic cadences, seamlessly dancing on the beat. The production, built on soft synths and playful guitar lines, creates a foundation where each note bounces with infectious energy. Greedo‘s vocal prowess, coupled with the catchy repetition of the track title, transforms this song into a triumphant anthem. It’s a musical recess you never want to end.
Benny The Butcher – “BRON
Benny The Butcher‘s “BRON” emerges as a lyrical triumph. Partnering with Hit-Boy, the track diverges from the producer’s typical style with regal horn blasts and neck-jerk drums. Packed with basketball metaphors and unbridled flexes, the celebratory tone harmonizes seamlessly with the horn-heavy beat. “BRON” stands as a grandiose, arena-worthy anthem, and Benny‘s choppy flow vividly highlights his compelling backstory. This track solidifies his legend, setting heightened expectations for his imminent album, ‘Everybody Can’t Go.‘
Rob Twizz – “Ti Amo”
Rob Twizz‘s reimagining of Umberto Tozzi‘s late ’70s hit “Ti Amo” takes an unexpected turn, transforming it into a heartfelt ode to marijuana. Clocking in at a brief but potent 1-minute-and-39-seconds, the Yonkers rapper weaves a smooth flow, infusing his personality into the homage. The visuals set in a Little Italy dispensary add an extra layer of smoke and mirrors to the proceedings. Twizz, a Bronx-born artist with Albanian Croatian roots, boasts a solid rap resume and with this single, he has rolled up a short but sweet high.
