FAUSTOE and SMOOTHDAWOLF invite listeners on a mind-bending voyage with their collaborative effort ‘Psychedelic Smoothiez‘. The 4-track EP released in January 2024 is a welcome throwback to Hip-Hop’s heyday. Blending edgy production with rapid, fiery bars, this collaboration feels like a breath of fresh air in the current hip-hop landscape taking listeners on a mind-altering ride through experimental hip-hop, defying conventions and embracing sonic experimentation.
Kicking off the voyage is “Ego Death,” a track that immediately captivates with its otherworldly vibe. The duo masterfully weaves together an eclectic mix of sounds, sampling a slightly off-kilter horn loop for the intro that makes you sit up and take notice from the get-go. As the beat progresses, borrowing elements from jazz, the mood intensifies, creating a captivating and introspective sound. It is reminiscent of something MF DOOM would have happily jumped on.
SMOOTHDAWOLF‘s lyrical prowess shines through, delivering rapid-fire conscious raps that dance hand in hand with a soulful trumpet line, inviting listeners to delve deeper into the labyrinth of their minds, immersing the listener in a hypnotic trance. FAUSTOE, the other half of this dynamic duo, brings his own unique flair to the mic. With a commanding presence and a lyrical style that is both introspective and thought-provoking, he adds depth and dimension to the EP. His verse perfectly complements the brilliant beat from AWSMEJ, delivering a potent blend of conscious lyricism and raw emotion. The ability to craft intricate rhymes and precise delivery is utterly captivating.
Continuing the expedition, “High-Breed” delves into a rich tapestry of sounds, relying on a gritty beat that serves the lyrics ideally. Here, the duo pays homage to their predecessors while carving out their unique path going back and forth with gusto. The track unfolds like a continuation of the sonic journey established in the preceding tracks, each twist and turn revealing new layers of sonic complexity and introspective depth.
As the EP progresses, “Psychedelic Smoothiez” and “All About Timin‘” take centre stage, pulling out something different from within the duo’s psyche. The former envelops listeners in a dream-like state, with its ethereal melodies and hypnotic rhythms, while the latter serves as a poignant meditation on the passage of time and the fleeting nature of existence. Each track invites listeners to reflect on the complexities of the human experience while never compromising the delivery.
“All About Timin’” sees SMOOTHDAWOLF effortlessly navigating through the track, showcasing a wild variety of flows that keep listeners on their toes. Meanwhile, FAUSTOE‘s contemplative side is on full display. He navigates themes of time, existence, and personal growth with depth and nuance proving he is not only a skilled lyricist but also a master storyteller.
Throughout the EP, the duo demonstrate their ability to blend old-school sensibilities with a modern approach. The EP’s sonic palette is expansive and dynamic, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that captivate and intrigue. From soulful grooves to gritty beats, each track offers a unique sound, inviting listeners to lose themselves in the music and embark on a trip of self-discovery.
With ‘Psychedelic Smoothiez‘, FAUSTOE and SMOOTHDAWOLF have crafted a project that rewards deeper exploration. So buckle up, and prepare to embark on a hallucinogenic experience like no other.
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