Album Review: Shadows by Conscious Route and Supermann on da Beat

 

Shadows

By

Conscious Route & Supermann on da Beat

Shadows is the latest release from Conscious Route and marks his debut collaboration with producer Supermann on da Beat. The album was released a few months back now and well overdue having the Infinite Sounds UK treatment.

If you are a regular visitor to the blog then you will have seen my previous reviews for Edinburgh based emcee Conscious Route, LostRoutes (with True Note from 2021) and Belterz (2023), if not then feel free to check those as well. Both of which have received high praise from the likes of The Scotsman and The Skinny Magazine. His recent releases such as Trojan and The Sensory EP have received worldwide airplay from the likes of DJ Shorty, Rapstation 365 Radio, BBC 6 Music and the legendary Chuck D. His music has also been named among the Herald’s top 100 Scottish tunes in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2024. On the live stage he has supported the likes of Dead Prez, Onyx, and Jeru Tha Damaja, to name a very few.

This is the first time that I have heard production from Supermann on da Beat and so it is only right I introduce you to him. Sanjeev Mann aka Supermann on da Beat is a Scottish based disabled South Asian producer. He brings a unique blend of influences to his production that includes bands like Nirvana to artists such as Kanye West, Nas, and XXXTentacion, to bring a fresh perspective to the UK scene. He learnt his craft while studying YouTube videos on music production during the Pandemic. This has led to a somewhat meteoric rise in Scotland’s Hip Hop scene and seen him collaborate with artists worldwide such as Chef The Rapper, Genesis Elijah, Mic Righteous, Krudd The Guru and Rockie Fresh. He has hit some huge milestones including a BBC Documentary and 6 entries on BBC Introducing, leading to becoming on the UK’s hottest upcoming producers. 2024 saw him release his debut solo project, which drew on spoken word and grunge to address issues facing disabled people. He has performed at events like Wide Days and New School Rules. His work to highlight the under-representation of disabled artists has led to a vital campaign to make venues fully accessible, and appearing on BBC Scotland, STV, Daily Record and BBC Radio 4.

The Shadows album was born, initially, from a loose promise from Conscious Route to collaborate on a track with Supermann on da Beat. However, although both were working on other projects, this grew into a handful of tracks recorded together and now the full ten track album which reflects their personalities and life experiences, Conscious Route with his often personal lyricism and Supermann bringing production that brings a soundscape that encompasses classic Boom-bap, trap, R&B inflected Hip Hop and more.

They have kept guest appearances light on the album with Stirling’s Pro Focus, Edinburgh’s Bridget Quinn, Glasgow’s P Caso, Milla, and Johnny Cypher (Glasgow), featuring on just four tracks between them. There is also an appearance from Jabbathakut on the album’s title track. This is done to bring a sense of community to the project while also highlighting both Conscious Route’s and Supermann on da Beat’s work with both local and up-and-coming artists, something that is frequently overlooked.

So, with all that said you now have a good introduction in what’s about to come, and now I invite you to join me for a deep dive into Shadows…

Super Smooth kicks things off on the smooth tip with chilled out vibe of piano, guitar, and horns over a laid-back beat, giving you a subtle head nod sound that makes you listen more intently to the lyrics; here we find Conscious Route opening up by taking a few shots at the music industry. You get this real sense that this is like friends sat round speaking on their experiences of the industry and how its set up to properly support the up-and-coming artists to actually make a living from their craft, but more to support the platforms that ‘promote’ the music, and I use the term Promote, loosely. Pro Focus joins us for Fashion as Supermann on da Beat switches things up with acoustic guitars and a trap beat that brings a vibe that claws at your nerves a little. The switch up in beat see’s Conscious Route and Pro Focus trading bars and tweaking their flows to match the sound. That quick-fire vocal style gives a challenge to feel the message here but, there is this feel that there is this vibe that looks at the lack of originality out there right now where there is too much being said that panders to what people want to hear without really saying anything of significance, there is a distinct lack of authenticity being shown and that produces a hollow sound with no substance, just going with the current trend. Plastic Bag opens with a vibe that seems to envelope your mind, closing in on you but, the production shifts throughout which never lets you settle long enough, like sitting on a slowly spinning round-a-bout in a dark room. Conscious Route does a superb job of switching his flows to the changing sound, the inferred darkness in the sound also comes through in the lyrics which seem to mirror the tough times we live in and how struggles of making a living can play with your mind as you constantly search for ways to survive or perhaps looking for a way out. Whatever you get from this track there is a deep emotive edge that permeates everything from the first beat to the last bar. Piano notes open Dubplate before another trap beat drops in giving this one more pace but, again, the production shifts across the track testing Conscious Route once more, taking the opportunity to flex his wordplay skills, giving us a demonstration of his versatility. There is an energy and perhaps some venom in this one that gives it a vibe that comes from a higher plane, speaking to you in a way that impresses the words directly into the subconscious. We move towards the mid-point of the album with the title track, which features Jabbathakut on the cut. Shadows has a head nod vibe to it which comes from the beat but, there is this organ sound which grabs at your awareness, holding your attention as the lyrics are impressed on you. Here Conscious Route spins some intricate wordplay that at first might just seem like a slick display of those words but, the more you listen, the more you realise that this is so much more than that with deeply personal insights that touch on how your own personal experiences have an effect how you grow as a person. But more than that it looks at how lived experience has such a deep impact on how we see the world around us, our own thoughts and how we cope with everything that comes from outside us but, also from within.

We move into the second half of the album with Purge, this sees Johnny Cypher join Conscious Route on vocals. Supermann on da Beat brings piano and string infused sound which has a classic head nod sound that is reminiscent of that 90’s Hip Hop vibe. Cypher and Route trade verses and bars that not only displays the versatility of their wordplay but also gives an insight into how they see their craft and scene they are a part of. Again, there is a deeply personal element to this that should not be overlooked but felt. Next up, Bridget Quinn and P Caso feature on Jazz Unsung. The piano takes the forefront over the beat, giving this the kind of jazz vibe that you can’t help but move to. This one is all about speaking on the sound of jazz music and those who brought and experimented with that sound, and while Conscious Route and P Caso school us intricacies and depth of Jazz, Bridget Quinn brings a quintessential soulful vocal that you can’t help but drift away to. This is definitely one to just sit back and vibe to. Safety brings a host of live instruments in to compliment Supermann on da Beat’s Production and something I always feel adds extra depth too. The sound here has a mix of influences from Hip Hop, RnB, and a sprinkling of trap too. This gives the whole thing a sound that has a reflective edge with an emotive air. Here Conscious Route brings one verse which serves as a bridge between the soulful vocals of Milla. The track which looks at love and relationships and the sad things that so often are apart of those relationships such as betrayal, heartbreak, and trust issues. This is one of those tracks that so many of us can easily relate to, and the emotive edge to the vocals makes it all the more so. We move into the penultimate tracks of the album, Overstood, where we find Supermann on da Beat bringing us a nerve jangling sound with a trap edge to it. The sound has an edge that seems to play havoc with your mind, or is that just my ADHD head? Here we find Conscious Route taking shots at the fake rappers out there and those who think that can make money off the back of Eminem, by being sound-a-likes or simply shouting their lyrics. This might be a short track but, it says just as much as the others. I mean, there are going to be times when rappers are ging to sound like others but, the key is to bring something new to the table, make your sound authentic and relatable, don’t just be like someone else because it sells. The final track of the album is Squashed, where Supermann on da Beat creates another beat that mashes up different influences and mixes them up and that drops a sound that seems to shatter what you thought was possible, which gives this one a sound that seems to be erratic but, on a stable base? Conscious Route gives us some more intricate wordplay that serves to gives us an insight into the fractured mind where everything can appear stable and sane but, can change in an instant…

 

Shadows is an album that you cannot label as one genre. Yes, it has its roots in the Hip Hop sound but, it takes that sound and steps outside the box with it, then infuses a wealth of other influences with it and returns with a finished product that encapsulates the definition of the experimental nature of music. What that does is to bring a diverse range of fans, a sound that is not going to be out of place in many different circles. This is a highly listenable album where, even the bits you might not be a fan of, don’t really seem to be out of place. I myself am not a fan of trap music, I find that high paced tapping, cymbal sound to take the focus away from what is underneath. However, here it has been done in a way that makes you feel that it just seems to work, where it has been placed, there is not feelings that it is too out of place, and, for me, that is an accomplishment.

I always enjoy the depth and the versatility of what Conscious Route does with his flows and his wordplay, mixing it up and deftly following the tone and pace of the tracks. His words have a complexity and depth of feeling that display a connection with himself and those who might be listening, in a way that has a deep spiritual side to it, and this is something that I feel we all need to hear more and more. Music that gives us a deep introspection and a direction to take that is so valuable for us all as we walk forward in a world that seeks destroy our oneness.

Having not heard production from Supermann on da Beat before now, I was suitable impressed with his ability to craft emotive sounds from such a wide range of influences, and for someone who has not been crafting beats for that long, in the grand scheme of things, he is to be commended for that. In fact, it does seem to be that he has a natural ability for bringing alive the sound that is the perfect platform for whoever is gracing the beats. I also salute him for bringing a spotlight on to disabled artists/producers. This is an area where there is not enough diversity in the music business and Supermann on da Beat is a beacon to those out there, showing just what you can achieve, no matter your disability.

Shadows takes a diverse range of sounds and focuses them on an equally diverse range of topics that anyone of us can associate with. It them delivers something them in one package that seems to go beyond it running time, making you feel you have been listening so something much longer. You also come away with a sense that you understand the true passion that went into making it, and the individual messages that each track holds.

Additional Shouts go out to the following:

Digital Dyer for the Artwork.

Chris Greive (Trombone) & Geoffrey Williams (Guitar) on Safety.

If you have not heard this yet then, it is well worth you giving your time to.

I give my humble thanks to Conscious Route for the chance to bring this one too you.

I’ll see ya next time.

Steve.

LINKS

Purchase and Streaming links Here: 

Conscious Route - Shadows LP

https://trueholdrecords.bandcamp.com/album/shadows

Conscious Route Socials:

https://www.instagram.com/conscious_route/

 https://www.facebook.com/groups/34250355773

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGXi9naG7p5CPxdJcvJCviQ

Supermann on da Beat:

https://linktr.ee/supermannon_dabeat

VIDEOS

Shadows ft Jabbathakut

 

 

 

 

 

Album review: 2 Heads The LP - Directors Cut by Nay 'n' Pand

 

2 HEADS The LP – Director’s Cut

By

Nay 'n' Pand

 

The last time I featured these two together was on 2022’s The Long Year EP, Which was produced by Panda and saw The Local Healers (Nay Loco and Ty Healy) alongside Louis Cypher, and even back then they were working an album together. That album would eventually come to fruition as this album right here, 2 Heads The LP – Director’s Cut.

Now the reason this has taken a while to reach your ears is that Panda and Nay wanted to bring you a true audible experience. But, please let me allow Panda to explain, “the LP has been constructed in a way that mirrors a feature film. There are twist’s and turn’s, hidden ‘easter eggs’ / film references, and it is all essentially split into 3 act’s with Opening / End credit theme’s and interval’s in an effort to keep you gripped from the moment you press play on the first track right through to the end”.

So, with all that said, the anticipation levels are high and I’m not gonna keep you hanging around but, just dive head long into the album, so let’s go…

 

As you take your seat, the lights dim, and the room darkens. The curtains of your mind slowly open and music begins with the 2 Heads Prologue (Opening Credit’s Theme). This short intro has a nice head nod vibe that gets you into the groove of things as the piano serves to bring this light-hearted edge that gets you in a feel good mood. Feeling good, but maybe with a slight air of anticipation about what is to come, Yung, Handsome & Black kicks in with a beat that keeps the head in motion while the mix of horns, sees Panda get that pulse rate elevated just enough to get you focused on the vocals. Nay takes on the role of our protagonist, giving us an introduction to just who he is, while spinning things just enough that you wonder is he portraying an anti-hero or something more? While you are pondering that for just a moment, Veronica Caine joins proceedings for her first appearance on Cartoon’s.  Panda brings us this very easy going vibe that perfectly emulates the sound that puts you in mind of watching cartoons on Saturday morning, back in the day. Nay and Veronica take us on a smile inducing trip through memories of an animated world where some of the craziest things happened, things that got you laughing. As you listen to the lyric’s, they get you thinking once more, is life really more of a cartoon than a movie? Consider it for a second but, but not too long because 32 Raws sees the horns and a more chilled beat, bringing a jazzy edge to the sound. Floating away to these easy sounds, you realise that this one is all about taking more than a few moments away from reality by taking a hit, or two, or more on one thing that can give you some respite from the daily grind. It might still be illegal right now but, perhaps times are changing? In fact, change, of a different kind, is something the end of the previous track alludes to, in which many couples are choosing to live together for longer, rather than get married quickly, and this brings us directly into the next track, Ain’t Married Yet. This features Veronica Caine on her second appearance alongside Nay. Here, the beat keeps that chilled edge but, with piano vibes accompanying a more head nod sound. This one looks at how love and family life can grow deeper and take its time to bloom. Not everyone decides to jump straight into marriage and that is something that is down to the individuals, and for some taking that time can forge a strong relationship that stands the test of time. 

  

Ya Don’t Stop (Act 1 into Act 2) is our first instrumental interlude from Panda. A heavy but laid-back sound that gives you a minute to nod your head to and consider where this one might be headed. Act 1 has given us an introduction to things, an overview, if you will, of our protagonist. What comes next is bound to open things up a little and we wait with bated breath. Act 2 begins with Saint or Sinner as Panda brings us a laid-back sound of bass and piano elements with this drum beat that brings a deeper edge to things giving this one a reflective vibe. Here Nay seems to be reflecting over his past, which has him caught up in a sense of purgatory, wrestling with just who he really is? The message here is that your life is what you make it and you need to choose the right path, one that is an expression of your true self; allowing you know that you have lived life to the fullest. Lost Folks changes the mood slightly, there is still a reflective edge here but, Panda uses the beat and piano vibes to bring a more personal edge to things. Nay grips that personal sound and takes us on a deep journey through life, thinking of all those he has lost along the way, reflecting on the good times and the bad. But the message here is that losing those close to us can be a hard thing to deal with and leaves us with a sense of emptiness, but it is important to remember them and to use those memories to fill our hearts with love and to never loose sight of who we are, walking forward with their essence still beside us, every day. That reflective edge continues with Somehow, the mood here is lifted slightly with Panda almost softening the beat into the background. The bass and guitars take the forefront here, and this creates a sound that lifts the mood. Nay reflects that lifting of the mood by speaking to his younger self about how all those struggles and hard times being worth it. You just have to bide your time and one day, in some way, and somehow, you will get that break and understand just what all those moments meant to you and how they prepared you for the place you are in now. Act 2 draws to a close with Kick A Rhyme 2. The first Kick A Rhyme appeared on 2023’s Bamboozled EP by Pandamonium and Ty Healy, Nay’s partner in The Local Healers. Panda brings a funky vibe that mixes bass and other guitars with a solid beat and more that provides an injection of adrenaline to the proceedings. This gives Nay the perfect platform to drop bars and open up his lyrics, kicking it on whatever he wants to, while bigging up Panda on the mix.

That sets it up perfectly for Me & My DJ (Act 2 into Act 3) as Panda rounds off Act 2, giving us a moment to reflect. Piano, heavy guitar riffs and banging drums bring a head nod sound that injects more adrenaline and gives you the energy to muse on Act 2. Act 2 seemed to show our protagonist reflecting over the past, wondering who he was as a person and understanding how his past experiences have brought him to this point and made him who he is, from a young man who may have been to be headed for self-destruction. It was the music that gave him the chance to be here now and teaming up with the right DJ has elevated things. With that thought in mind for Act 3, we find Nay looking to the future with Where Do We Go from Here. Panda comes with the Jazz fuelled sound that sees piano takes the forefront, giving us a chilled sound to kick back to. Just like Dizzy Dustin on his album with Panda, Nay finds himself stood at a crossroads in life. All the pain and suffering we see around us, and even that we have lived through gives us food for thought as the road in front of us finally clears, we wonder how we walk forward carrying that heaviness. The answer is just to take some time to remember who we are and find the strength to take that next step forward. As we consider that next step, Panda ups the pace a little with How We Roll, bringing a more pulse pounding sound that gives just the right energy for Nay to take that next step. Nay takes the beat between his teeth here and brings more grit to his delivery, giving us a look at someone taking his seat at the top of his game. Channelling all that past energy into a future that he has fought hard to bring to fruition, carefully honing his craft and polishing every aspect of his game and taking his rightful place at the top. I Saw Ya, brings a real laid-back vibe that changes the direction you thought the album might be taking. Panda switches things perfectly here by creating a platform for Nay to drop a track that speaks on the love he has for the love of his life. This is another deeply personal dive into Nay’s life, something that shows how love can help you change the direction of your life. That notion of change is explored now with Change, where Panda brings in an upbeat Jazz vibe that has in infectious sound that you can’t help but, move to. Nay looks at life and how some can change for the better while others change for the worse, that is just how life works as it evolves from the choices we make along the way. Some changes are things that we intend, while sometimes things just change in an instant but, one thing is for certain, change is always on the cards, it’s just how we react to that change that sets up where we go from there. Finally, we find ourselves at the end of the album, closing out with Until Next Time (End Credit Theme). Here Panda brings the final interlude and signing off of the album. As the curtains in our mind draw once more and we listen to this funky little ditty, it sets us up with pondering over the entirety of the album. Long after Nay & Panda are 5000 G, you are left thinking. We began with Act 1 giving us snapshots of what was and had been happening, while Act 2 drew us in deeper, reflecting on life before finally coming to a crossroads and looking to the future…

 

This album has been some ride, and I have to say that Nay and Panda did a pretty damn good job in how they created and presented this album. It takes you deep on many levels and while giving you a deep look at Nay’s Protagonist, it also gives you enough room to come away thinking about your own life. While keeping the enjoyment levels high and injecting just enough to break things up along the way.

Nay shows a wide range of flows, wordplay and that ability to bring deeply authentic, personal lived experience to the table, something that allows you to really associate, on a personal level with the themes and focus of each track. This gives Nay’s delivery a depth that makes you want to listen intently to his lyrical content and to not want to miss a word of it.

Pandamonium just seems to evolve and mature with every release he is involved with, be it solo or alongside another artist and here he once again shows how that evolution as a DJ/Producer allows him to perfectly emulate the sound that Nay is looking for to take the lyrics to a place where the musical mood is balanced with that of the lyrics. He also, does all the cuts, mixing, mastering etc, and that’s something.

It would be amiss of me if I did not give a mention to Veronica Caine who appears in Act 1. She brings a nice balance to those tracks with her delivery and wordplay. Something that not only brings that balance but, also adds a little extra depth, giving you a different angle on things.

Together these guys have taken their time to craft a release that is exactly what they were trying to deliver. 2 Heads is an album that is crafted in such a way that I don’t think I have heard it like before. It balances entertainment value with deep emotive content in a way that, you have to listen to it in one go, just like if you were watching a movie, and if you have to stop for snacks or to use the loo, you have those little interludes in which to do so, once you pause it of course.

I really understand how It took nearly three years to get this right, you can’t rush something like this, especially if you want to deliver the depth of meaning that the album brings, and credit where credit is due, the guys have done a masterful job here.

I don’t think there is much more for me to say except that 2 Heads The LP – Directors Cut, is a pleasure to listen to; and it was also a pleasure to write to, as it was one of those listens that allows the words to flow, and I love that. It is also released through Pandamonium's own imprint Label, BAMBOOM Records.

If you have not heard this one yet, then I advise you to have a listen now. Plus, there are strictly limited cassette tapes available, and I think there might be more physical versions coming soon too, so watch for that.

My humble thanks to Pandamonium for letting me bring this one to you, albeit a little late.

Enjoy, and I’ll see you next time.

Steve.

LINKS

One Link to grab the Album and more:

https://linktr.ee/naynpand

Nay Loco Socials:

https://www.facebook.com/ElNegroLocoNay 

https://www.instagram.com/nayloconotts/

Pandamonium Socials:

https://www.instagram.com/pandamoniumuk/

https://www.facebook.com/djpandamoniumuk

https://www.youtube.com/@PandamoniumBeatsUK

 

 

 

 

 

Album Review: Introspection by Remark and Murmur

 

Introspection

By

Remark & Murmur

 

Now this one has been available for release for a couple of weeks now but, due to me taking some time off in August, this is the earliest I have been able to get into it.

Now many of you will know Remark from my reviews of his solo work and that of his work with Immune and the hardcore vibes of Fireball Flingaz, among others. For this release he teams with producer Murmur from Greenock, Scotland, for something a little different. I have written about Remarks background before, so feel free to check those other reviews But, I feel it is worth mentioning a little about Murmur before we head into the review of Introspection.

Murmur has had a lifelong association with Hip Hop after growing up in the 80’s and 90’s. As part of a DJ crew, they would put on their own events in Glasgow and be the warmup for the artists headlining. Those early years also saw a few occasions running from the cops through fields following the break-up of so called ‘illegal raves’. After getting into a bit of production, he began to take that more seriously around 3 to 4 years ago, then working alongside emcees in the last couple of years. This led to him working with Dan Brown, Prevmarco, and Peter Sparker. Murmur also produced for Legs MC, which I have reviewed here too, so feel free to check those too. Murmur’s inspiration comes from many genres including House, Techno, Jungle and Indie. He notes that his work with Remark for Introspection “has been a major step change for me. I stopped thinking about what I thought an MC would want to hear and just let things happen. Then when it gets to Remark he just elevated everything and found pockets I didnt hear. It let me move away from straight 16 bar verse and 8 bar chorus structure to just listening to where I thought the music should go”.

With all this in mind, you can bet that the depth and passion of remarks lyrics and this new approach to production from Murmur, is likely to bring something that will get you thinking. So, join me as I take you on a trip through Introspection.

I originally had the album some time ago but, it has had a few slight changes along the way so, I’m truly excited to bring you this deep dive into the album. It all kicks off with The More We Know. Piano, guitars and horns all feature on this alongside solid head nod beat. All mixed together this one has a deep thoughtful vibe. Remark draws on his years of experience to bring us a track that speaks deeply on the process we go through in life that allows us to continually grow and understand are authentic selves. We achieve this through gaining knowledge as we walk life’s journey, and as his sung chorus explains, the more know, the more we grow, the more we get to know ourselves. Each of us has a different journey, a different set of experiences, we grow differently but, we do grow and we will all, one day know who we truly are. With such a thought-provoking start to the album, you sit back and, for the most fleeting moment, wonder what’s next? The moment that thought enters your mind, you are greeted by a short, nerve jingling into for Precautious, this serves to focus your attention before the beat drops in. Keeping the head in motion, Murmur hits us with a beat that is underpinned by an almost eerie guitar sound with a bass guitar floating quietly in the background. This one raises the energy levels a bit more with a sound that almost seems to set you on edge. Remark speaks on the current state of affairs in the world today, a place where you need to be careful of any information that comes at you from an external source. We live in a society where much of the information you see around you is censored and filtered in a way that allows what you hear to only partly truth; this allows the information to be massaged and delivered in a targeted way to control how you react. The answer is to find something you enjoy, that speaks to you on a deep level, you can then keep yourself grounded and cautious of every step forward, and as you take that next step, it takes you directly into Ear For An Ear. This multi-layered sound has an almost soundtrack vibe to it that seems to transport you into the shady world of espionage and psyops, but is that really what its all about? This one speaks on one thing, the truth. This one comes from Remarks own viewpoint as he takes us deep into his own psyche. He shows us that we need to silence that part of the mind that grabs the filtered information from the outside world and runs with it, whispering the untruths causing a conflict with the heart, which knows its unsafe to believe everything it hears. The thing is that we all go through this and there are plenty of us that choose to listen to the monkey mind and not the heart but, to truly hear, you must listen with the true ear, and that is the ear connected to your heart.

As you let that sink in on an unconscious level its time to Re-Humanise as Murmur brings a beat that has a feel that mixes a classic head nod beat with a sound that has an electro / Trip Hop edge to it. This gets you bouncing while seemingly feeling those electronic sounds throughout your entire body. This shorter track has deep message that might well escape you if you are concentrating on that banging beat. But some of the deepest messages are delivered in such a way, and here Remark is alluding to how the external struggles can twist the mind into a place that separates us from human self, the true self that thinks and feels from the heart. We need to breath, feel the true force of nature and re-connect with our true human self. Side A (if you happen to be listening to this on vinyl) comes to a close with Here’s To Hope. This one has a lighter vibe which comes with the flute notes, which seem to uplift as you listen, and the beat carries you. That uplifting sound is mirrored by the message in Remarks words which, in truth, is very simple and that is to invite and live with hope in your heart. Everyday you hear of struggles, pain, and suffering, the words of positivity and hope are rarely put forth, and so it is up to us to look past the darkness and to see and feel the hope that a brighter day is there. Even if you are only able to hold on to the smallest thread of that hope, it is still there and by doing that you are bringing that brighter day closer, every day.

So, if you have the vinyl, its time to flip it over, if you have the digital, then keep on listening…

Next up is Trickery which mixes guitars and piano notes, with a heavier drumbeat and more to bring a sound that you can’t help but close your eye and vibe to as seems to give a glimpse of the brighter day. That uplifting sound seems almost juxtaposed to the lyrics which speak on how we are kept living in a state of stress or feeling we are living in sin. Let’s face it be it organised religion, the media or the powers that be, they all trick us into living this way to keep us in a state of mind that is easily controlled. The trick that we can pull in return is to not be taken in by this; thinking that we are all living in original sin or that governments are working with our best interests at heart. No god would be vengeful, and no living person should have to suffer without their basic needs being met so that the rich get richer. There are a lot of ways to look at this but, the truth is we should not be taken in by the trickery and no one living on this earth should suffer at the hands of another. Other Realms has an electronic edge to the sound, and when taken alongside the drumbeat, there is this other worldly vibe that seems to come through. This sound fits perfectly with the fact that this one questions reality and what might be real and what might be something completely different. Remark also mentions how music is a gift for humanity. Music is something where you can bring your own personal experiences to bare or, music can transport you to another reality, perhaps that is a place where you can fully understand that not all of what you see and feel in the world around you is all it seems. While you are questioning what is real in the world around you, music can help you take a step away from this reality, and to go deep inside yourself to find the truth of who you are. Where does your music take you…

Midnight On The Wind sees Murmur bringing a beat that seems to have an etheric quality to it. The beat is multi-layered with different percussion sounds and, I’m not afraid to say, some elements I can’t quite pin down but, it gives this sound that does seem to encapsulate the very nature of the title of the track. Here Remark takes us on a journey that crosses the veil between this world and the next. A place where angels call your name, ghosts of the past and future are as real as you and me, and where visitors from beyond may just cross your path. This is where you can recognise that whatever your art is, it comes from the place where your heart is, and that is a place where you can close your eyes, dream, and create anything you desire, and it’s your home that is right here inside you. The dream world is an amazing place but, right now you are drawn back to reality with the albums penultimate track Great Outdoors. Flute notes and electronic sounds give this track a vibe that goes beyond the beat with an uplifting vibe. The flute has a native American sound, and this gives the whole track a sound that is rooted in nature. That nature vibe is something that, for me, seems to permeate the whole track as we need to understand that the digital age is affecting the younger generation in a way that takes them away from a connection to the natural world and perhaps that is all that needs to be said? It is important to take time away from your devices, your TV, and step outside your front door and ground yourself, connecting with mother nature in the Great Outdoors. Think about it, we were born of the earth and will return to the earth but, we need to remain connected to the earth. The album ends with Far Away, where that ethnic sound underpins the guitars and the drums to create a sound that seems to have a Floydian edge to it and feels like it touches your heart directly. This one is a stunning way to end the album and could be the deepest track too. It gives you this sobering thought that with all you have been through to date, you might well find yourself at a crossroads in life, and in that moment all your goals might seem to be so far away from you, but this is a metaphorical crossroads, where nothing is as it seems and all those goals are obtainable, you just need to pick one and walk forward with your head down and headphones on, cancel out the noise as you walk forward as your authentic self…

 

What is immediately striking about this album is that Introspection is all about looking at the self and you mental and emotional processes, and the album really does such a great job emulating that. Every track in some way invites you to look at yourself in some way be it directly or by understanding Remarks own narratives. In fact, there is this little voice that often says to you ‘well, if Remark can do it, then I can do it too’ and I think this is something a little different that this album has, its that air of authenticity and that the narrative is coming from someone who has been there and done the work on themselves, it makes the album deep on a very conscious and emotive level.

Remark always a very conscious way of writing that can swing between differing levels of emotive context from straight up anger at the establishment to deeply emotive story telling and words that show a true understanding of what is going on in the world around him. He connects to his subject matter in a very spiritual way that shows a connection to the self and nature. With Introspection he takes to a very personal level that allows a connection to the listener, giving them the invitation to perhaps, look at themselves in this way too.

Remarks emotive words are made even more poignant by the production of Murmur. The way he has crafted each track by allowing his production to flow from working directly with Remarks vocals, adds this depth to the sound that just matches and, in some cases, seems to actually elevate the vocals to new hights.

What these two have crafted together is this deeply emotive, conscious Hip Hop masterpiece, if you will. You might want to call it left field and that is perfectly fine but, I like to keep it simple and for me, this is an example of emotive Hip Hop music at its very best. This is the type of music we all need to hear right now for so many reasons.

It is true that what I have intuited from this is what the music said to me, it might well say something different to you, and that is perfectly fine because we are all on our own journeys, and what we have experienced along the way will colour how we interpret what we hear and feel from the music.

So, if you have not heard this already, then I highly recommend that you have a listen and see where each tracks take you. You might just go somewhere a lot different to where I went. But what you will do is enjoy every minute of the experience.

My humble thanks to Remark for letting me bring this to you and to Murmur for Bio which helped me give you a little insight into himself.

Introspective is out now on digital and Vinyl from Elastic Stage.

I’ll see you next time,

Steve.

LINKS

Get your copy of the vinyl here:

https://elasticstage.com/remarkmurmurvinyl/releases/introspection-album

Get your copy from Bandcamp here:

https://remarkmurmur.bandcamp.com/album/introspection

Remark Socials:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100005925346438

https://www.facebook.com/RemarkMcLennan

https://www.instagram.com/remarkmclennan/

Murmur on Insta:

https://www.instagram.com/murmur8000/

 

VIDEOS

The More We Know

 Ear For An Ear

Midnight On The Wind

 

Single Review: On The Floor / Watcha Waitin' For (Feat. Blade) by Whirlwind D

 

On The Floor / Watcha Waitin For (feat Blade)

By

Whirlwind D

 

I have been pretty lucky to have been able to review pretty much every release from Whirlwind D since 2017’s Falling. So, I was hyped to hear that this latest release was coming, and when he mentioned it would be featuring the legendary figure, and a close friend, Blade, I was even more hyped.

As the man himself Whirlwind D has featured here many times, there is no need for me to introduce him in any way. The single is released through ae Productions and features production and cuts from Djar One, who also mixed the tracks at Beats House. Plus, there is also art and design from John Dyer to cap it all off.

So, there is not much more for me to say except, let’s get into it…

 

On The Floor finds Whirlwind D taking back; back beyond the times of labels, Solid N Mind and the Battle Tipped Rhyme, to speak on the toys that would be instrumental in the years before Hip Hop, Graff, BMX, and skateboarding would come along, and those toys would be left on the floor. Now, being of that same era but, also having a younger brother too, I can really associate with everything that D drops here from Steve Austin (The Six Million Dollor Man) and Skeletor (He Man), to the Dinky, Matchbox and Corgi toy cars, to building Airfix model kits of planes and even Star Wars vehicles. Thinking back over these times brings a smile and even a tear, these were, as D says, the times that shaped who we were and how we would interact with the world and people around us. These were good times when we had no cares and no worries before we grew and world seemed to change. This is the kind of reminiscing that brings so much enjoyment, and Whirlwind D brings it all back so vividly. But the enjoyment levels here don’t just come from D’s skilful wordplay, Djar One brings this upbeat sound that mixes in funk fuelled keys and horns with the kind of head nod, body moving beat that broadens your smile and really helps to crystallise those vivid memories; even the cuts here seem to have a vibrant upbeat feel to them. In fact, this one is so infectious that you kind of want to spin it a few times before flipping it over.

However, flip it over is something you have to do because the B-Side is Watcha Waitin’ For and see’s D linking up with Blade. Djar One brings a deep 70’s, Prince style funk vibe here with cuts, keys and bass that make you nod your head slowly while thinking to yourself, ‘Oh Yeah’. While you are bouncin’ to this one, there is a solid message here that D and Blade make perfectly plain and simple for you to understand. That message is that it is ok to have dreams about the future but, just sitting back and crystallising those dreams is not enough; you need to work towards them, reach out and take hold of those dreams and make them happen for you. It will take you a lot longer to achieve anything unless you have the determination and drive to make it happen, and that means working through all those doubts, feeling the fear and doing it anyway. Remember, practice makes perfect, or close to it anyway. So, practice over and over, be unapologetically yourself, show them your authenticity and don’t try to be like someone else.  

 

Overall, what can you say about two completely solid tracks like these? Either could be an A side track, they both have that strength and emotive content. Both have equally powerful messages to say on different subject matter that speak to you on different levels bringing enjoyment, reflection, and motivation.

As always Whirlwind D uses his intelligent and distinctive wordplay, with differing flows, to bring you solid Hip Hop vocals that speak to you in a way that you have no problem having on with youngster’s around, making them a pleasure to listen to, as you get to hear every word he says; and that is also reflected by Blade who drops his intellectual wordplay in the same way. Blade might not make many appearances these days but, when he does there is always a depth to his words that goes beyond normal thought patterns, and you have to read between those lines.

There is just so much to like here on this release. On The Floor has Whirlwind D in full on reflective mode bringing us the kind of feel good vibes we all need right now, while Watcha Waitin’ For sees D and Blade working so well together in bringing a track that has a deeper aspect, speaking to you on a whole other level but, still with an enjoyment factor that rocks the spot.

Both of these tracks are underpinned by the production from Djar One who shows here just who you can take that funky Hip Hop to a level that raises the bar every time. Djar One has a knack of producing funky Hip Hop vibes that can elevate any track but, that also have a life of their own as instrumental tracks with an upbeat feel that makes them such a joy to listen to.

There is nothing left to say except this is one release you need this year and will stand head and shoulders with other summer releases.

On The Floor / Watcha Waitin’ For is released today, so don't sleep on this one.

As always, my humble thanks to Whirlwind D for giving me the chance to bring you this one as an exclusive.

I’ll see ya next time,

Steve.

LINKS

Grab your copy of the single Here:

https://whirlwindd.bandcamp.com/album/on-the-floor-watcha-waitin-for

Stream on Spotify Here:

https://open.spotify.com/album/

Whirlwind D Socials:

https://www.instagram.com/whirlwind.d/

https://www.facebook.com/solidnmindrap

 

 

 

 

Album Review: My Bigfoot Life (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

 

My Bigfoot Life (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

By

Various Artists

 

I have decided to change direction with this review and look at something a little different. I have never had the chance to review a soundtrack yet and so this is going to a big departure from my normal work.

Now to fully understand how this soundtrack came to my attention, I have to give you a little background. So, sit back and make yourself comfortable.

Back in 2024, and quite out of the blue, I got a message asking if I would like to give a talk at a Cryptozoology conference being held in Bridgewater, Somerset UK, not far from where I live. The request came from a Daniel Lee Barnett and when I jumped on a live video chat with him, I was surprised to be talking to Daniel and his Nan, Jill. Daniel a young autistic guy in his mid-teens from Bridgewater in Somerset and has made a name for himself in the Cryptozoology world with some amazing research he has conducted here in the UK. Now Daniel was given my name by my good friend Jon Downes, who runs the Centre for Fortean Zoology and Gonzo Weekly; and as you know, Gonzo has also been running my reviews for some time too, see the link forming here…

Now, as I have had an interest in the paranormal and Fortean subjects such as Cryptozoology for over forty years, I decided this was a good opportunity, even though I had not done any public speaking in over eight years. In the run up to the conference I did some research on Daniel an discovered he had his own Podcast (which I have had the pleasure of being interviewed on too) and a book published about his journey titled My Bigfoot Life (Which is an interesting read too - CFZ Publishing), this was also being made into a documentary movie of the same name.

Now I am not going to go into the details of Daniel’s research here but, I’m fast forwarding to this year and Daniel’s third Cryptid Conference UK. This time I had been asked to be the official photographer for the event, where I got to meet some amazing researchers, people and Daniel’s family who are an amazing bunch who support him at every turn. I was lucky enough to get to see an advanced screening of the movie, and of course here the emotive music that forms the backdrop to that movie.

My Bigfoot life is not a movie that is just about one young man’s research or interest in the Cryptozoology world, it is far more than that. This film takes you on a deeply moving journey through Daniel’s life and the struggles of Neurodiversity and how that affects both him and his family. It shows how sitting and watching a Bigfoot related TV show with is grandfather piqued his interest and brought him out of his shell. The shows how he found a new family within the Bigfoot community and how there are some good and bad people within any community but, how the strength of will, support of good people and family, can overcome any obstacle. The depth of the emotion in the delivery of this documentary is truly touching and something I was able to appreciate as both a father and a researcher, especially as I have my own neurodivergent challenges as do my children.

After all this, it made sense to me to listen to and review the soundtrack and give you my thoughts and feelings, as that is what music is about.

Much of the soundtrack is written by a local artist Stephanie Jayne, alongside one track with her group St.Fian. There are also contributions by composer Simon Paul Newton and a track by Bigfoot researcher Brian King Sharp and John Harwell, and the soundtrack comprises of both sung and instrumental tracks.

So, please join me on a review journey that is very different from what has come before…

 

We begin our journey with Sailing (Family), a track which features in several different versions across the album, but this first version has a very emotive tone that focuses more on Stephanie’s etheric vocals, backed by deep strings that has this touching energy that allows you to connect to many aspects of the family life. You can really relate here to the how a family copes with life with an autistic child and how they adapt to that and how love and developing the family unit becomes central to life. There is also the aspect of how the extended family grows and deepens, coming together to support someone in their darkest moments. It even touches you when you consider your own place in the family unit and how that affects those around you as you all navigate through life. As you feel all of this, you consider the lyrics which seem to parallel those thoughts, speaking of navigating the often troubled waters of life around you as you grow and walk forward in life. Next, we have the title track of the album, My Bigfoot Life, this is a mainly instrumental track that mixes etheric vocals elements with drums and strings to create another deeply moving sound. The drums create this sound which puts me in mind of listening to native American drumming but, mixing that with the vocal elements allows you to close your eyes and drift into a meditative state that can take you anywhere. You can transport yourself to the forests of North America or perhaps the Quantock Hills of Somerset, where Daniel often goes with his Nan, family, or close friends, the likes of Ryan RPG Golembeske, Gwendolyn Purcell, Chris Allsford, DJ Brewster, Brian King Sharp, Craig and Emma Dowsett. These forest settings are places where you can lose yourself, come away from digital age of modern life and get back to true nature and experience things that were meant to be experienced, like the beauty, peace, and the sounds of the natural life around you, Bigfoot just happens to fit into that….

Mythical Legend once again mixes deep emotive soundscapes with Stephanie’s etheric vocal elements. The drumming takes on a different edge and is complimented once more by string sounds. As this one glides through your awareness it can take you anywhere but, what is important to note here is that as Daniel’s journey into Bigfoot brought him more out of himself, it allowed him to find his voice, he had selective mutism in hid younger years, and he created the Mythical Legends Podcast, where he interviewed some big names in the Cryptid world alongside his Nan, Jill, Chris Allsford, and other guest presenters. He even interviewed this guy called Steve about being a paranormal researcher. But this track really fits with how that all came together and the emotive nature of how one young man was able to find a voice on a subject which he has so much passion about. This is followed up by the first track from composer Simon Paul Newton, Daniel’s Theme. Now listening to this you might think that it is difficult to put fifteen years of someone’s life into around seven minutes of music but, Simon does just that. As the piano elements build, you can feel the emotions that come from birth, through the challenges of early life and on towards adulthood. When you consider the challenges that Daniel has faced to this point, the motional nature of this track not only becomes apparent but, it touches your heart, deeply. But, there is also light vibe to this track that lets you feel the challenging nature of life while also understanding that there is a brighter side, and that brighter side what can be achieved when you find that spark inside of yourself, it pushes you forward while touching and encompassing those around you and all those you meet along the way.

Sailing (Troubled Emotions) is the second version of this track on the album and this one is almost accapella, which has this haunting quality to it. This song does look at the turbulent nature of life for all of us and how we seek to find the safety from the anxieties and pressures of life. Here that works so well as a focus for a particularly touching part of the documentary. Daniel was the subject of some unsavoury actions from someone considered to be a friend. Those actions and even some treats that were levelled at him, deeply affected him for a planned trip to the USA, and the emotionally haunting nature of this track perfectly reflects those moments. But we all know that those who perpetrate such actions can never hold back the strength of positive energy and the love of those who stand strong beside you and Daniel was able to overcome those times and then help to create something new, the Legend Seekers. Here the sound is one that is reminiscent of Clannad as Stephanie sings of searching for secrets which hidden, misunderstood, or even yet to be discovered, and this is what the venture Daniel is creating is all about. Working alongside Ryan RPG Golembeske (Finding Bigfoot, Expedition Bigfoot, Outkast Paranormal), Chris Allsford, Craig Barnett (Daniels Dad), Craig Dowsett (Winnie the Pooh Blood and Honey), Gwendolyn Purcell (Strange Knocks Magazine, Got Knockers, Cryptid Collective), DJ Brewster (Alaskan Killer Bigfoot), and others to form Legend Seekers, a new TV show that will see the team investigating high strangeness from the UK to the US and back again. This track perfectly mirrors what the show is all about and what the team will look to achieve. Keep watch for this series, coming to screen near you in the not-too-distant future.

Sailing (Away) the next version of this track brings the sounds of the ocean to bear, mixing with the emotive musical sound. This gives you the sense of Daniel overcoming his struggles and finally being able to cross those troubled waters and make the next stage of his journey over to the US to continue his journey alongside those closest to him, for new adventures and new friendships. This track might have a deep edge to the sound, one that some might find dark but, you have to see the dark to see and feel the light and that is kind of how this one feels. It’s like travelling the tunnel to reach out and grab that light at the end, bringing it to you because you know you going to get there. Searching finds us musically transported to the pacific northwest to take a trip alongside Daniel, his family and friends, into the deep forests to look for evidence of the one thing that has fascinated Daniel for years. The deep nature of the sound from the drum elements to the string elements give you an aural taste of what it would be like to walk the pitch black forests, with all your senses on high alert for every sound or faintest of movement in the moonlight. This is one of those you just have to sit back and feel and drink in that folk soundtrack sound.

Life Going By is track from Bigfoot researcher Brian King Sharp, which is composed by John Harwell. The sound of this one is just Acoustic guitar that carries you through the track but, that sound has just as much impact as Brian’s words. The message behind Brian’s words here, if I’m right, is to live your live to the fullest and not to just let things pass you by. There are moments in all our lives we wish we had have grabbed with both hands and made the most of them and this is what is at the core of this song, see those moments for what they are and grab them, making the most of each and every one of those moments, because of you let them pass you by, you’ll always regret it. Next, we have the original version of Sailing by St.Fian. Here you can feel that folk sound from the guitar and drum. As you listen to Stephanie’s angelic vocals you really get the sense that what this song is saying is that wherever you go to in search of what life has to offer, you will always have a home, a place to feel welcome and safe, and that is something that seems to be an unconscious message in the documentary, Daniel may go off in search of the unknown but, there is always a place for him and those around him to feel safe and nurtured, and that is something we all need, no matter where we go to.

The penultimate track of the album is Transcending from Simon Paul Newton. There is something about piano music that has a deeply emotive aspect to it, and here Simon does another stunning job of bringing a sound that is perfectly uplifting in an emotional way. This track, if you allow it to do so, will take you to a place where you feel the power in transcending the challenges and hurdles that life puts in your way. Finding your passion can help you do that, you might have many interests and hobbies along the way but, you will find something that will speak to you and take your heart to all the right places, and that is your passion. My Bigfoot Life shows how Daniel was able to overcome some of the biggest hurdles in life by finding his passion, you can do that too. The soundtrack finishes with Sailing (Instrumental). This is the instrumental of the original version by St.Fian. As you listen to this it’s like you are given a moment of reflection; just to reflect on what you have heard or seen. The nature of water means that it can reflect light and has an almost mirror like effect at times, no matter how turbulent it might be. We also have so much to be thankful for with water; we drink it to stay healthy, we can swim in it, and travel across it. So, it is no wonder why we see so many ways that life is like water, as it makes its way from source to the sea. Water is soft and yet it can be such a powerful force, it can also be so peaceful as it meanders it way across the land. Water is also like out emotions, so the next time you see how water behaves in different moments, think of how your own emotions behave too. When you finally get to see this documentary, remember that and see how you feel…

 

Daniel Lee Barnett, Steve Rider and Ryan 'RPG' Golembeske ©Infinite Images 2025

With a soundtrack, it is often hard to sum it up as a whole because it is there to reflect a multitude of emotional states from start to finish. The soundtrack to My Bigfoot Life is no different however, it conveys those emotions across to you without using extremes of musical expression that knock you from one extreme to the next, here it is all done in very subtle ways that allow you to feel everything on a very deep level. So, as a soundtrack of music it has this mixture of classic soundtrack style music with both instrumental and vocal tracks but, it also works well as a mix of folk and relaxing music that you can simply sit and chill to, some even have that meditative nature to them. What will really bring home the nature of this soundtrack, is when you get to hear it alongside the actual documentary movie, then the full impact of it can be truly realised.

I get that not everyone will like this style of music and that is perfectly ok, but even if sitting and listening to the soundtrack is not your thing, once you experience it with the documentary, it might just change your mind.

For me, having experienced the documentary and now listening to the soundtrack, it has touched me in many ways. I could sit and listen to this while contemplating my own mental health struggles or thinking of the memories I have of loved ones who have passed or are still here with me. It really does have the strength of musical content to take you to a great many places, regardless of your musical tastes. I have said it a number of times, I love instrumental music as it can take me to so many places, and the My Bigfoot Life soundtrack definitely has those moments; moments that can bring smiles and tears, that’s the true power of music, especially when matched with the right visuals.

The My Bigfoot Life Official Movie Soundtrack is available now to stream of download.

My Bigfoot Life Documentary is coming soon from M & M Film Productions.

I give my Thanks to everyone I have mentioned in this review, all of whom I have met personally and am grateful to call friends, and I wish them all the very best, hope to see you all again soon.

My huge thanks to Daniel, if you had not asked to do that talk, this would not be happening. All strength to you buddy and keep up the incredible work.

Have a good one all and I’ll see you again soon.

Steve

LINKS

Get a copy of the Soundtrack Here:

Apple Music

https://music.apple.com/gb/album/my-bigfoot-life-original-motion-picture-soundtrack/1818738998

Amazon

https://www.amazon.co.uk/music/player/albums/

YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/playlist

 

Mythical Legends:

A podcast that you need to check out if you enjoy fortean subjects.

https://www.youtube.com/@MythicalLegends282

 https://www.facebook.com/groups/5503606043060781

https://www.instagram.com/mythicallegendspodcast/

M and M Film Productions:

https://www.mandmfilmproductions.co.uk/

https://www.instagram.com/mandmfilmpro/

https://www.facebook.com/mandmfilmproductions

Cryptid Conference UK:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555469340942

Summit View Studios:

This is not something I mention in the review but, it is a new venture Daniel is a part of and worth keeping a watch on regarding the Legend Seekers and much more.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555469340942

Booking:

For more information on booking Daniel, please contact C.E.D Talent Agency.

Email: cdproductionscompany@gmail.com

https://www.instagram.com/c.e.d_talent/

Stephanie Jayne and St.Fian:

https://www.instagram.com/st.fian/

https://www.instagram.com/stephaniejaynemusic/

 

EP Review: Smoke On The Water by Joe Blow

 

Smoke On The Water

By

Joe Blow

 

Smoke on the Water is a six track EP that was released back at the beginning of May this year through Veteran Records. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I have had to delay the review until now.

Joe Blow is a veteran of the South Wales Underground and an emcee, producer and DJ. Smoke On The Water sees him teaming up with legendary Cardiff producer AckoBeatzuk, who produces the project, and the equally legendary DJ Jaffa, who provides all the cuts and scratching. Just looking at that line-up makes you want to stop everything and hit play.

This review will be the first time I have featured Joe Blow on his own solo project. However, I did feature him as a guest on 4Dee’sShots Fired album from 2023. Joe had a very early introduction to music as his mother would put a radio under his pram as a baby to help him sleep. Later he would play records from his brothers’ collection, on his brothers’ turntable while he was out, and would still do the same but, on his own turntable once he had one. In fact, it was discovering the 12 inch single of RUN DMC’s My Adidas, that would influence Joe’s musical tastes and dress code from that moment onwards. Later, Joe would go on to form the group Undecorated Veteranz, alongside 4DEE and the late DJ Stagga. Now, with over thirty years in the game Joe Blow is looking to cement his place in Hip Hop history…

 

The EP kicks off with Break Away where strings take the forefront, with a sprinkle of horns, over the solid head nod beat. This creates this vibe that brings feelings of summer days and sun filled winter getaways. Here Joe cleverly spins stories that are full of retrospective insights that speak of the situations and people you have to break away from in order to walk forward in life and your career. This is something that we can all associated with as we look back on our lives. There is a lot here that speaks on making the most of your life and always walking forward even if there are things and those you have to leave behind to do that, never let yourself get held back. Ride or Die sees the drums softened into the background as guitar and horn vibes take centre stage. This gives the whole sound a vibe that has that mariachi feel to it. Here that storytelling vibe speaks deeply on connecting with that special someone. A person who is more that just a significant other but, who is your best friend and has your back, no matter the situation. Less of a love story and more of a dedication to a love that runs deep. This is all finished off with some classic cuts from DJ Jaffa. We move into the half-way point of the EP with Super Nova. This one has a heavy guitar sound which gives this one a rock rap sound that tears the speakers open with the force of sun at the end of its life. This one is a platform for Joe Blow to set the stories and messages aside and literally just go all in and drop some insatiable bars that show the quality and intricacy of his wordplay. So, sit back and slap this one on and just bounce to it…

We cross the tipping point easily with Count Of Three where organ notes, guitars and psychedelic vibes merge with banging drum beat to give us the kinda sound that transcends the traditional sound of 3D world, taking you places unknown. Here we find Joe letting go of the world around him, not to just spit some sick rhymes but, to open up to the fact that sometimes to find the peace in the world it takes the smoking of a certain plant to aid taking to that place where you can that let go of reality and darkness in the world and find another place where you can find that peace and write the right rhymes. There is a feint air of the psychedelic vibe on Ten Outta Ten, where the beat is mixed with a harpsichord sound that helps blur the edges of reality once more. Here Joe is laying out all his cards on the table with a dash of braggadocio as he drops bars that tell us exactly what he is all about and how the work that goes into those bars makes that a solid Ten Outta Ten every time, and after listening to this one, I think you’ll agree. The Ep ends with High Noon, this one has a heavy sound that has this sound that seems to invade your mind with needle like sounds that keep you focused on the words while the cuts vibrate those needle like sounds, bringing a sound that is like funk on sci-fi. With this one the get the sense that Joe is basically saying that there comes a time when you have to stand and face what’s in front of you or maybe what’s within you?  Whatever it is that you stand and face, and for whatever the reason is, even if it is for a life of peace, you need to stand and face it for you, because you can’t face it for anyone else. This is his and your high noon, the point that everything has been flowing towards…

 

There is no doubt here that Smoke On The Water is a solid masterclass from Joe Blow. It has everything you could want from witty rhymes to complex wordplay, with polished flows too boot. Joe perfectly demonstrates why he is a veteran in the game. He does not let up or play safe but, gives everything 100%, giving us a release that stand up as one of the best so far this year; and if we are speaking of it being one of the best, then can’t overlook DJ Jaffa on the cut, who always delivers,  or incredible soundscapes from AckoBeatzuk, who has delivered a variety of sounds, all of which are rooted in the Hip Hop sound.

There really is not a whole lot more I can say that what I have already done so but, if you enjoy this one as much as I did then you will find yourself coming away from that with adrenaline buzzing through your veins and a deep desire to listen again while searching through Joe’s back catalogue on Bandcamp to see what else you can sink your ears into. This EP does do that; it makes you want to hear more from all involved. But what it does more than anything is to well and truly cement Joe Blow’s status into the annuls of Hip Hop history, not just in Wales or the UK, but into Hip Hop as a whole. It’s a bold statement I know but, there is just something about that witty, no nonsense style that says he deserves to be there.

So, if you have not heard this one yet, then I humbly advise you to give it a listen now, because you won’t regret it and will probably love it.

My humble thanks go to 4DEE for giving me the chance to bring you this one. Also, a huge sound out to Wordplay Magazine for the insights I gained through their interview with Joe.

 

I’ll see ya next time.

Steve.

LINKS

Get the EP from Bandcamp Here:

https://joeblow1977.bandcamp.com/album/smoke-on-the-water

Joe Blow on Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/

Joe Blow on Insta:

https://www.instagram.com/joeblow01/

Smoke On The Water YouTube Playlist:

https://www.youtube.com/watch

VIDEOS

Ride or Die (ft DJ Jaffa)

High Noon (ft DJ Jaffa)