ONE Fáris

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Zeph Ellis X DB Sound System – Badmind

I’ve heralded Zeph Ellis (formerly known as Dot Rotten) as one of the most talented musicians in the country, and as much as he may not be at the forefront, he’s low-key very much still adding his magic, working with the likes of Steel Banglez and more recently, DB Sound System..

Badmind makes for a vibezy cut, blending the abstract sounds of Zeph with the cool flows of DB, the trio featuring Skits, Deli & Ash and their varying personalities, it creates for something quite distinct from the regular acts out there today. Not new to the game, they have individually been about for a while, so to see them come together to create something so organically is always refreshing. Skits for example was part of the pioneering Piff Gang (as well featured in Top Boy), and in this instance has the standout with his introductory verse and chorus. It might just be that certain styles do not garner the coverage required, or the audiences themselves have yet to develop to such a level, but DB Sound System definitely bring a realistic approach with their craft. If you’re looking for feel good music, an overall good vibe, then they’re most definitely worth checking out. With tracks like this and their previous efforts (like Bomboleo and One Two Tings), you can expect around the time of their live show to be quite the wave, and it’s that very feel and ‘cool’ essence that they represent.

Tagged Ash, DB, Deli, OneFáris, Skits, Sound system, Soundsystem, Zeph Ellis

https://soundcloud.com/bonkaz/yard-ting-barking-remix

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Bonkaz – Yard Ting

With his recent release (and previously reviewed) What You Want surpassing 100,000 views, Bonkaz doesn’t waste any time to drop his spin on Ramz’s chart-soaring Barking, with Yard Ting:

Truth be told, I didn’t really listen to Barking, heard it a couple times here and there, this however, is good that it’s come out now and not closer to the original’s release, as it could have overshadowed. The South London talent has a versatile skill set, and with this cover, he only proves that further. Keeping the main tone of the song, yet switching up the flow, he glides over the beat, with his known lyrical proficiency, he effortlessly displays that, weaving through the dancehall vibes.

Tagged Bonkaz, OneFáris, Ramz, Yard Ting

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Scorcher – Down

One of the undoubted stars of the British scene, Scorcher seemed set for stardom from the get-go, with the foundations laid, he was one of the early MC’s to garner a large female following, and whilst I’ve previously mentioned the struggles that can bring with the direction of their music, he’s one of the few versatile enough to dominate in both. Maybe because it seemed like he was the chosen one..that peers and audiences developed animosity and might not have championed him as deserved, but in recent times he has still been able to stand tall amidst the negativity, with tracks like (the incredibly underrated) No One Else and Paranoid, plus standout performances in both the TV series Top Boy and (the movie) The Intent. Unfortunately, whilst I thought he was just being himself..not as prominent on Social Media (as he’s definitely not one for all the fake shit), it appears that he is currently in prison. Initially I thought (and was hoping) he was just filming for the sequel of The Intent, but it appears that he really is currently serving time (the reasons are unknown and really none of our business), but while the Universe finds ways to align you on your true path, don’t for once think his abilities as a top tier artist are under question, as he not only gives us a freestyle, but a whole track with (the 2Pac inspired) Down:

One of the realest people in the industry, or at least one of the realest I’ve met in this game, that honesty has always transcended through his music, from early as his classic My Diary. Though he’s certified with the street shit, he’s one of the best with the introspective raps, and Down is just that. Something for the fans whilst they wait, but it definitely shines light on situations, “I’m at my best when I’m at my worst”. Ever the fighter, the wordsmith is able to poetically inspire even at the toughest of times, one of his qualities and reasons for his loyal fanbase.

Whilst it’s great to get some new music from the talent, I’d rather he was free, and hold faith that this is just a step-back that will help propel him further to where someone of his talents and nature deserves.

Click image to listen on Spotify

Tagged OneFáris, Scorcher

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Smiler – Gangsta

Back like he never left. One of the more visionary acts to come out of England, Smiler had seen quite the rise seven years ago with his breakthrough hit Enza, he continued to elevate the sound and it would be fair to say he was a part of pioneering the transition, with a more commercial sound, especially in a time where that was the only route, with songs like Top of The World (ft. Pro Green) and Brand New Style, where he tackled more variant sounds whilst maintaining his lyricism and content. Clearly studying the behind the scenes workings, he went on to play a more entrepreneurial role, creating his Portfolio Music Group imprint, assisting the careers of others with the label’s diverse roster. However, you can only hold back the talent for so long, and much to our pleasure, in this more accepting climate, he has returned to the forefront, with his new offering, Gangsta.

The no frills record is one of his best works, as it continues where he left, with the informative, OG perspective, and where his previous lyrics may have been subdued by the production, this mid-tempo track is the perfect platform for his words to be held up on, as he delivers to the high standard that has become expected of him. Whilst the flow is cold, one of the more notable factors on this..is his storytelling ability, the moments where you can visualise the pictures painted. The second verse trumps the first, the way he goes straight back into it, and that standard stays throughout. Always the wise, beyond the tale, there’s gems within the verses if you can catch them.

Sounding better than he ever has, Gangsta is a mere teaser to what’s yet to come, but it’s quite the re-entry from Smiler, in a time where his abilities can be more appreciated.

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Tagged OneFáris, Portfolio Music, Smiler

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Mr Bigz – Body 2 Body

Bigz is no stranger to vibes, the rapper has experimented previously, and now steps into a lane which feels as natural to listen to, as it clearly is for him to create.

AfroBeats has found itself amongst the leading sounds today, and as the genre continues to evolve, the Flygerian himself, Mr Bigz as his alias Wavy Boy Smith, sprinkles his influence over this Sonny Reeves production, to bring us a more refined version, that brings the heat to a cold winter’s end. Don’t be surprised if this song finds its way onto everyone’s playlists gearing up for the summer. An easy listen, incredibly catchy, from the way he spreads the verses, the bridge, down to the hook itself.

The video captures the song’s vibrant feel, with the choice of colours, and not to mention the array of beautiful women, but more so, Bigz who gets out of his throne to throw down some subtle skanks in what is an essentially enjoyable vibe. Keep an ear out for more from Mr Bigz and even Body 2 Body as it steadily gains momentum.

Tagged Bigz, Body 2 Body, OneFáris, Sonny Reeves

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Jermaine Riley – Midas Touch

As the British scene continues to grow stronger, there is more realisation of the lack of R&B representation, especially when we’re well aware of the talent available. One of those talents in particular, is none other than Jermaine Riley. For those that have read previous reviews, you’ll be up to date with his history as part of the group Fundamental, a singing, dancing trio that may not have fulfilled their potential, none the less, it has not stopped the frontman from continuing on the solo path, and whilst it has been frustrating as a fan to see his work overlooked, as I listen to this latest album, those efforts and the struggle he deals with as an artist, have clearly sharpened his skill set, and more so polished the gold. Presenting Midas Touch:

Ten tracks to not only bring you up to date with the entertainer, but brings us to where R&B (especially within the country) is at today. Whilst this isn’t the first project from him, it is the most personally relevant, from the intro (with his adorable nephew), where you get glimpses of his raw vocal ability, to the song itself, Blue Peter, with it’s traditionally British theme (based off the show), and musically it upholds that very feeling. Sometimes when an artist has more than one strong ability, it is difficult to highlight them all, so from the get go he’s flexing his penman ship and flow, over the head-nodding Swiff D production. Next up is one of the standouts, the one you just know he’ll do justice live, Major, I’ve always found similarities in Jermaine and Omarion, vocally and as performers, and this track reminds me of the latter’s underrated Distance, it’s got that infectious bounce to it, and he proceeds so smoothly, it has to be noted that his vocal arrangement has vastly improved (something that becomes clearer throughout the project). It’s rare to get a project that can have such a variety of sounds and styles yet remain in sync overall, with songs like Move On and (the popular) Family, he is able to assert his presence, singing without compromise, and just when you think this is the tone of the album, he switches up the style on Let Me Go. I can’t remember hearing anything close to this from him, further pushing the boundaries, it reminded me of how I felt listening to the likes of Damage back in the day, in terms of that British blend of cultures.

I surprisingly enjoyed this album more than I thought I would, it’s a mature sound, his voice is sounding the best I’ve heard from him, he has lyrically delivered, and I’m sure he has some dope choreography planned for the tracks. Rather than altering his style, he’s honed it. The ad-libs are on point, like the notes hit at the end of The Reason (and so effortlessly). Whilst there’s evident confidence in the performance, tracks like Thick Girls & Hot Boys introduce more assertiveness from him as a person, what is initially a cool track, it adds to the personal aspect, very few songs are as open on sexuality without it being the focus, that makes it tasteful and will resonate widely, plus it has that classic Lumidee sample (which only adds to my Omarion comparison, as he also coincidently had that). I’m not sure if I was hoping for a slow jam on this album, but For Me helps serve that side, as it’s a slower tempo, and will undoubtedly work well within the live show/end of the night. That’s another thing about this album, it’s well ordered, and credit to Jermaine because he arranged it, followed by another favourite of mine, Make Love 2 U, similar tempo, but it has that feel of a perfect radio-single, with the cool verses and very catchy hook, the more I listen to Midas Touch, the more I hear how much he has been working on his craft and the evolution as such. Finishing off with Busy Enough, which almost delivers as an outro, upon which I realise that this album is heavy in quality, from start to finish.

Jermaine Riley’s previous attempts might not have been as successful as one would have liked, but with Midas Touch, those previous experiences have clearly helped in his development, and from the writing, recording, arranging, mixing and even the artwork, which is all done by himself, (with no real assistance) this end product is a much better representation of him and his ability, and is already receiving praise from old and new fans alike. Midas Touch is most definitely a step in the right direction, as he continues to prove his talents are golden.

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Tagged Jermaine Riley, Midas Touch, OneFáris

Jan 31 2018

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Abby Jasmine – Long Live

OVO’s Baka made quite the entry with his anthem Live Up To My Name, and fittingly New York talent Abby Jasmine switches it up for her version, Long Live

The lighthearted track mirrors her personality well, it’s really one for the ladies to sing along to and the guys can appreciate. Maybe it’s ‘cos shes cute, or maybe it’s her energy, but she definitely has a standout vibe…that has garnered her a fair following, and as cool as the track is, it was a really smart decision to flip the standout line from Baka’s original, to, “he said I look like Riri when I’m smokin’ on a bean”, and no doubt girls across the globe will feel that one. Only criticism is the timing, it might have done better last summer than when the audio released, in November, but that doesn’t mean this can’t do what it needs to, and regardless..it’s a good start to the year for an act with plenty of talent and charisma to match.

She also followed up Long Live with the hype ‘Bless Yo Trap’

A strong personality and voice, the potential is most definitely there for her to cement herself as one of the more notable acts breaking through this year, and I would not be surprised (after a project under the belt), if she’s in talks for next year’s XXL Freshman cover.

Tagged Abby Jasmine, Baka, Cinematic

Jan 24 2018

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PnB Rock – Catch These Vibes

Catch These Vibes is an applicable title, as it really is a compilation of vibes, with some vibes however standouting more than the others..

whilst the first four tracks are cool, it’s the A Boogie featured Lovin’ that really sticks out initially, it certainly is a better representation of PnB and his sound, and he continues that with Issues, his collaboration with Russ. There are influences throughout the project of the likes of the Weeknd and Ty Dolla $ign, it’s much like Tory Lanez in the versatility, and while tracks like Lowkey (ft. Roy Woods & 24hrs) or iRun with Lil Yachty showcase him able to create with others and even have them step their game up, it’s (probably my favourite track) TTM (Talk Too Much) where the “trapstar turnt popstar” truly certifies himself and his talent.

(Produced by NGHTMRE) Yes the production is a big part of the song, but the way PnB Rock is able to dictate the track with his melody and even the concept (outside of his comfort zone), has to be applauded. The track has a lot more potential than it’s seeming to show at present, including the Wiz feature, which Khalifa-man done well with and really helps accentuate the record, I’d be surprised if a decent visual was not in the works, someone from the camp or label has to get behind it, because it has crossover potential. It’s sat right in the middle of the tape, which shows it’s ability to hold the project together. This review was initially going to be of just TTM, but in speaking on the project as a whole, even upon listening, the same sentiments stand.

Another standout, is the Smokepurpp featured X3, a different sound again, but PnB will definitely a have a good live show with these variations of ~~sounds~~ vibes. VOICEMEMOWAV.4 might have one of the best names of a track in recent, and it’s one of the better tracks, it’s rawness works and offers a completely different but catchy element, and contrasts well for Pressure, the more open, “I gotta stay strong through it all, and act like I ain’t going through it all”, and introspective cut, it might the more relatable, as PnB delivers more substance, creating a track that blends the realism of the struggle with the glimpses of success. Tracks like Confide which features the legendary Juicy J serve as more examples of his ability to not only pen a catchy song but the delivery which you cannot help but sing along to. It’s incredibly rare for an artist to have such diverse standouts, but it goes in his favour, as he closes out with Rewind, the more R&B of the tracks, with odes to Usher, a somewhat thug love song, but it really works and helps define PnB’s lane. I was not checking for him as much prior to this, so it has most definitely worked, and as he continues to define himself..he is for sure one to watch, but I’d still be disappointed if they don’t capitalise on the hits they currently possess (TTM!).

Have to commend the cover, it’s a favourite, reminiscent of Pac’s classic Strictly album, and it expresses the project well, with the choice of colours, use of tone and most all abstract interpretation, much like the music.

Tagged Atlantic, Catch These Vibes, PnB Rock, TTM, WIZ KHALIFA

Jan 24 2018