The longer you spend supporting the underground, the clearer this one rule stands out. If it’s produced by Deevo, it’s certified. He’s a man who doesn’t need any second-guessing or hesitation; just a simple press play, and your life will be changed. He’s a man who has worked with so many different artists and truly put work towards the future of the culture, and today he’s back with yet another dope MC who is ready to bring that famous Deevo collaboration chemistry to light! Let’s talk about it!
This is the brand-new EP by Producer -Deevo Da Genius and -MC Eyeflo, and together they drop this rather tasteful six tracks consisting of 14 minutes of content!
So as we discuss the production side of things, we hear Deevo access a bag of more smooth and soulful minimalism that somehow has a strong surreal sense to it that only he can layer. These tracks feel skeletal and bare but in the most unique way possible.
We’ve heard Deevo on some of the most hard-hitting and powerful instrumentals in the last few years, as well as some experimental cuts, captivating beat tapes, and more.
But on this one, he seems to be going down the direct and stripper-back atmosphere that makes you feel the music is in your bones! Whether you’re talking about the track -Steady & Sturdy, which actually reminds me of Herbie Hancock’s song -Watermelon Man in the way that vocal loop harmonises and acts! The type of snippet to give you goosebumps!
Accompanied by, we have what sounds like some chopped flute samples that include some plucked bass strings and hypnotic drum notes that come together for a vulnerable yet heavy-handed instrumental!
There’s the track -WHEREYOUAT? Which I absolutely adored due to that gorgeous piano sample. This could be in the running for the most stripped-back song on the album based on that 10-15 second intro of straight piano that evolves into some ambient-style chord progressions and mesmerising drums! Only a few layers, but as usual, Deevo makes it sound first-class! Again, due to the piano usage, it reminds me of Herbie!
Or the song -EARTH, which closes the EP off with those sharp and direct horns that take centre stage on the track, that is combined with some subtle angelic vocal harmony loops, infectious chord progressions, and what sounds like a slight use of the xylophone in the background! From the vocals to the beats, this feels like a song paying homage to the legend -Mos Def! Spectacular finale for the EP!
As we discuss the MC himself, I have to say I was impressed by him in a lot of aspects! One thing right off the bat I noticed is how he seemed to be able to channel the energy and aura of the greats and no doubt his influences across the songs! From, as mentioned, the shoutout to -Mos Def to -Busta Rhymes to even a mixture of ODB! What makes his usage special is that it doesn’t sound ripped or plagiarised but more of a student of the game paying homage to the ones that came before by leaving lyrical Easter eggs that only the realest who grew up or appreciated that era will pick up on!
Considering he only had 14 minutes to go off on, I commend him for his unyielding charisma, skill on the mic, and his strong penmanship. He didn’t let a single second or breath go to waste as he bombed the instrumentals with solid bars, witty puns, descriptive sentences, and dynamic phrases that paired with Deevo’s production to a tee!
This is a man who actually sounds EXCITED to be on this record. Not just a job, but a passion for him! Each verse made me think of a kid who grew up idolising hip hop and finally, after years of practice and experience, being able to live his dream. That hope and optimism can be felt throughout each and every part of his performances!
I loved that he had no features. He let his own mastery of the mic prevail and grab the attention of the audience. Using the 14 minutes, he gave us all a taste of what he’s capable of and made a mental/emotional and sonic investment in himself and in us that I guarantee you will pay off in very short time!
This has all the marks for being ‘EP OF THE YEAR’ from the smooth and stripped-back production to the ridiculous talent of MC Eyeflo. This one can’t afford to be slept on, so check it out in the link below!
https://open.spotify.com/album/5XzmyBY86zFfR8yQYparXL?si=xCyZp0TBSQ6QWRPZG11uGg
The Serpent Tongue Reviews 