By default, when an artist decides they want to do a concept album. In this case, this one is inspired by the Tom Cruise classic ‘Eyes Wide Shut’, which is an inspiration that has so much potential, and best believe these guys knock the execution out of the park! Let’s talk about it!
This is the March drop by MC shvmire and Producer AUR (with track 8 being produced by the rapper) and features from
-NUEMONEY718
-Action Figure 973
And before I continue, there is also a deluxe version via Bandcamp with five extra tracks for those who want to follow this album further and support them directly!
Now, I want to start with the MC work because I gotta admit shvmire is one compelling MC. He sounds like a lyrical wizard who Gandalf his shit in and out with perfect execution. I love his mysterious vibe all over the beats; the way he raps is a combination of smooth and introspective. He gives off strong ‘poetry rap’ early 2010 vibes that are swift, complex, and bars that make you think.
It’s the verge between haunting and intellectual. Sounding like a wise man who has all the answers but refuses to give it to you in simple texts but rather force you to think about what has been said (one of my favourite sub-genres of rap).
I love his groove, love his nature ambiance, and his relaxed approach to the vocals. A true mark of a ‘thinker’, his fluency with the witty one-liners and the set-up bars combined with his overall tone and penmanship makes him a truly dangerous mind in the culture and a man who utilises the production phenomenally!
I also love how he builds with the various features! Each guest MC shows fantastic chemistry with him as they pull off a handful of dope tracks that share the same energy as he does!
When you talk about the production, you can’t help but be in awe of the atmospheric impact this one delivers on. I’m aware of AUR’s work in the past, but he really outdid himself on this one because each beat is absolutely gorgeous in its sonic presentation!
From the more ambient cuts to the heavy jazz-inspired ones, this thing has it all, and each song feels like a film score come to life.
For example, we have the track -BLACK GATSBY, which has at the forefront these heavy-handed vocal harmonies that are so profound and powerful that they take over the whole track (in the best way possible). One of my favourite samples I’ve heard in a minute!
That’s combined with some plucked strings and methodically paced drums, as well as these subtle key progressions that help give this track a little bit of texture!
Or the song -PRESS PLAY, with those glistening piano keys on repeat alongside that infectious bass and drums? That’s a recipe for a hypnotic track that you just can’t beat! Although one of the more minimal tracks on the list, it’s still amazing!
I also love how the tracks -AUNTIE MARGARET’S SOUL FOOD & -UNCLE ROY’S PIE start off exactly the same but provide two different tracks. It’s a rather interesting experience!
So to summarise: A: A duo who was inspired by one of the best movies of all time. B: An MC with an intriguing mind and technically sound lyricism. C: A producer who can force you to lucid dream on the production. D: A strong feature list with great chemistry.
Need I say more? If this doesn’t pique your interest, then what will? Peep it down below and make sure you check out their Bandcamp for the Deluxe edition!
https://open.spotify.com/album/29QIC9HAlvwFXSX070TStK?si=BkYTMsEQT1ucyV4jW4B0zw
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