After properly starting her career in 2021 with a few singles that continued throughout 2022, Laya Kalimamakes her big project debut with Agridulce, an EP that better encapsulates the sounds she’s comfortable with and others she’s willing to explore. Agridulce starts with “wiken”, a dancehall and afrobeat track with lots of mainstream potential. Afterwards, “la daga” is an electropop tune that’ll fit perfectly in all sorts of dancefloors and party playlists. Then “instinto animal” explores love and sex in a blend of afrobeat, dance music, and alternative sounds. Next “miel” fuses trap, R&B, house, and Caribbean elements to provide a unique sex-fueled record. Later, “que rica” is a body positivity/female empowerment house song that’ll play well in dancefloors and party playlists. Finally, “mvpc” closes the project by blending elements of house and trap in a track that features the protagonist taking authority over a difficult relationship and moving on.
In sum, Laya Kalima’s Agridulce is a short that experience that manages to present many of the sounds that the artist is willing to explore while sticking to familiar themes lyrically, a combination which provides a lot of mainstream potential.
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“Lugares Algarete”: Pizza Con Chocolate, 91mirage and Solecito Join Forces to Provide an Experience11/28/2022 As one of the most active beatmakers in the scene right now, Solecito has always been a musician open to collaboration, an ability he continues to display in his latest collaborative effort alongside Pizza Con Chocolateand 91mirage, Lugares Algarete, a project that digs its roots in lo-fi hip hop, but one that expands itself to a variety of sounds like jazztronica, trip hop, rock and more. Lugares Algarete starts with “Axis”, an experimental jazz, electronic and hip hop fusion that would make Flying Lotus fans proud. Afterwards, “Cinturón de Orion” follows the experimentation of the previous track, but this time providing more atmosphere along with MF DOOM, J Dilla and Madlib influences. Then “Terapia” delves into the psychedelic side of things as the producers provide what seems what it feels like to get a back massage in beat form while displaying some trip hop and rock influences. Next “Amorose” serves as the most lo-fi hip hop song in the project thus far. The second half starts with “Redes Sociales” is an atmospheric track that reflects on the subject matter of its title in a song that feels heavily inspired by Frank Ocean’s Blonde. Subsequently, “Hechizos” shows a bit of the producers’ dance influences as they blend their brand of experimental lo-fi with club music. Later, “Titos Con Parcha” finds the trio blending their lo-fi vibes with reggae and dub to present a unique psychedelic experiment that’ll play well in beach day playlists. Finally, “Yuxtaposición” encapsulates various of the experimental sounds explored across the project as the vocals explore what seems to be memory and nostalgia in a song that promises more avant-garde approaches in the future of each producer.
In closing, Pizza Con Chocolate, 91mirage and Solecito’s Lugares Algarete is a fantastic blend of what all the musicians can bring to the table in a project that takes listeners through a variety of sounds with a firm root in lo-fi hip hop. As one of the prominent artists in the recent rise of underground artists exploring dance music and hyperpop, Griiego has been one of the most active in 2022 as the young musician has continuously released singles and collaborations that have kept him present in the public consciousness. Now, with the release of his debut album, METEORA, the artist shows off all his influences while delivering a love-driven story. METEORA starts with “CNTGO ME 100TO CB”, a psychedelic drum n bass experience that’ll have listeners dancing or connecting with the love-fused lyrics. Afterwards, “QRME” is a collaboration with Daniyy that continues to explore drum n bass while taking it on a more futuristic direction. Then “BSCNDO” mixes drum n bass with some pop punk influences as Griiego continues telling the love story he began at the start of the album. Next “PKE” is an auto-tune driven experience that’ll make listeners feel like they’re surfing the early 2000s internet. Later, “TOYCNSAU” is a danceable mix of house and glitch music that’ll hypnotize fans with its repetitive keyboard sample. The sixth song, “TDOLK100to” is another love-fueled song that puts the musician’s hyperpop influences in full display in a track that’ll most likely make people sweat their butts off. Subsequently, “VRTE” features djeii in a love-inspired exploration of rave and hyperpop that feels like something from the future. The second half starts with “DEBAJODLAMESA”, a collab with DJ MEKA that will have people moving from one side to the next. Afterwards, “ESTOYCNTGO” features DJ KAMPO in a record that features elements from glitch, club music, and phonk. The tenth track, “No vuelvas +” is a collaboration with Vndy that slows things down a bit in what could probably be considered a ballad in the form of glitch music. Then “QNERESTU” continues to chill things out as it feels like there’s no hope for the once-existent relationship to have another round. Next, “ARTSTA” provides some of Griiego’s abilities to create a club hit with a song that’ll have people moving their feet. Finally, “PNSDOTE” closes the project as he blends his electronic sensibilities with R&B-driven reggaetón.
In summary, Griiego’s METEORA is a love-inspired exploration of a variety of electronic sounds from drum n bass to house to rave and club music to the latest form of said sound in hyperpop, showing the artist’s influences (including the album title and heavily used “You think you know me” sample) and what he can do with them to create something new. On a final, final note, I’d beat myself up if I didn’t mention that this project would have an extra life if Griiego would get together with other producers or DJs to remix the entire project or just a few songs much like Linkin Park did with Reanimation and Gorillaz with their first two albums. After various years without a proper album release, Boricua punk and rock n rollers Ardillas are back with a Canciones de Amor, Locura y Muerte, project which demonstrates that despite the hiatus, they never lost their sound. Canciones de Amor, Locura y Muerte starts with “¿Dónde Están?”, a punk and rock n roll track that celebrates the band’s longevity while also taking jabs to those who said they’d never last. Afterwards, “Linda Niña” is a love-fueled garage rock tune that can play well on any dancefloor. Then “No Es Para Tí (Este Mundo)” is another garage rock tune, but one that this time around shows off the band’s storytelling skills in a tale that’ll make listeners question life and what they’re doing with it. Next “¿Por Qué Tan Lejos?” is a love-fueled garage rock ballad that’ll play well in playlists. Later, “Katrina” is a ballad that seemes to be a celebration of a brand-new family member. The second half starts with “Entregate a la Perdición” a fast-paced record with classic punk and rock n roll influences that’ll make fans of Iggy Pop, Turbonegro and boogie woogie proud. Subsequently, “La Naranja No Es Mecánica”, a fun rock n roll tune that’ll have listeners dancing or listening to the story-driven lyrics. Then, “Triste Berlín” continues the love-fueled garage rock tradition as the band provide a story full of heartbreak. Afterwards, “La Ruta” finds the band picking up acoustic guitars to bring some rockabilly and western elements into their sound. Finally, “Canción Para Tí” closes the project with a ballad that mourns the loss of a loved one due to long distance or death in what is one of the most emotional songs in the entire project.
Overall, Ardillas’s Canciones de Amor, Locura y Muerte is a fun collection of tracks that show the band’s mastery of the garage rock sound while exploring punk and traditional rock n roll sounds in the process showing off how time didn’t negatively affect their creative juices. After releasing a few singles and EPs since 2020, Chuwi recently released their latest project Pan, a four-song collection that expands on already existing Caribbean sounds with a fresh take that brings elements from the realms of hip hop, psychedelia and electronica. Pan starts with “Uwu”, a bolero with electronic and psychedelic elements that will surely play smoothly in listeners’ ears. Afterwards, “Rico y Pico” is a blend of bomba, bolero, electronic, psychedelia, salsa, and dembow elements that’ll continue to make people dance. Then “Tíkiri” continues to expand on the group’s salsa, hip hop and electronic influences in another song that keeps listeners dancing. Next “Increíble” is a beautiful mix of the group’s previous sounds, but this time around using bomba as the root of the track.
Overall, Chuwi’s Pan is a beautiful and fresh take towards traditional Caribbean sounds that blends those classics with psychedelia, electronic music, hip hop, and others to create something familiar, danceable, and full of potential. After delivering a few singles and the EN LO QUE EP earlier this year, young artist NaboriNyah continues to show his ability to balance mainstream and experimental sounds to create a unique blend of his own in his latest project, KALUNGA. KALUNGA starts with “INTRO”, a very soulful abstract rap track that shows off the artist’s Griselda and Mac Miller influences. Afterwards, “TALES FROM KALUNGA” is another display of NaboriNyah’s lyrical skills as he touches on a variety of subjects while rapping over some underground hip hop production. Then “SON LAS HORAS” is a mix of trap elements with abstract hip hop, Caribbean and soul influences that continues to show the young artist’s openness to explore more experimental sounds. Next “METIENDOLE UN RATO” continues to show the artist’s lyrical skills, but this time over a trap/drill mix. Later, “MARGINAU’” is an interesting production that will have listeners creating mosh pits to the abrasive bass while NaboriNyah practices different flows. The second half starts with “THATSCRAXY!”, a psychedelic blend of lo-fi hip hop and phonk that’ll have listeners through some weird atmospheres. Subsequently, “GUERRA ESPIRITUAL” once again finds NaboriNyah over some soulful/abstract hip hop production, but this time around balancing his rapping and singing skills. The following track, “SUELTAME” finds the artist exploring more electronic-based sounds that allow the artist again show off his balance of rapping and singing abilities. Finally, “OUTRO” is finishes the project delivering a track with similar production to the intro, some soulful abstract hip hop that displays the artist’s Griselda and Mac Miller influences with some introspective lyrics.
In closing, NaboriNyah’s KALUNGA is a project that displays the artist’s ability to balance mainstream and experimental sounds while adapting to them seamlessly, thereby demonstrating his versatility as a musician. After producing for a variety of artists recently and making a collaborative EP in En El Struggle, Andres Melzgets very personal in his latest beat tape, Sentimientos Aleatorios, a project that finds him expressing part of his love life and coming of age through lo-fi hip hop roots that take him in different directions. Sentimientos Aleatorios starts with “NADA PERSONAL”, an atmospheric mix of lo-fi hip hop and electronic elements that create a tune worthy of being in a coming-of-age film. Afterwards, “IN THE SHOWER” is a tune that takes listeners to that feeling of having sexual relationships in the shower as Melz hypnotizes listeners with the atmospheric vibe and use of saxophones. Then “TUS OJOS ME HABLAN” is a lovely tribute to that fire that can be sparked by simply looking at your partner’s eye while also transmitting the vulnerability one is willing to put out there in such a situation in a track that for some reason reminds me of what happens when we mix lo-fi hip hop with Studio Ghibli scores or Legend of Zelda music. Next “DESCONFIANZA” is transmits the atmosphere that can spark out of jealousy and a loss of trust within a relationship. Finally, “DRUNKEN FIST” encapsulates that drunken feeling of love, both the very good and most beautiful aspects but also the more difficult sides of it.
In conclusion, Andres Melz’s Sentimientos Aleatorios is a great and to-the-point project that explores love in various ways while showing off how the producer can maintain a consistent sound that encapsulates the concept behind said idea. As two of the most active metal bands in Puerto Rico’s underground scene, Fullminator and Out of Hand have had contact in shows across the archipelago, but it wasn’t until this year’s Dialectics of the Cosmic Real that they finally got together to record something together, a project that finds them blending sci-fi and horror influences with their hardcore, thrash, and death metal influences. Fullminator starts Dialectics of the Cosmic Real with “Crushed by the Sun”, a sci-fi inspired track that finds the band showing off their hardcore, Slayer and GWAR influences. Afterwards, “Starslicer” continues to display Fullminator’s perfect blend of sci-fi elements, thrash metal and hardcore mixed with a bit of power metal. Then Out of Hand takes over with “Inertia Complex” is a fast-paced display of the group’s grindcore inspirations. Next “Inconsequential Guilt” finds Out of Hand blending traditional heavy metal with their own death metal sound. Finally, “Supertouch / Shitfit (Live Amped Studios)” is a track that takes us a bit into the behind-the-scenes creative process of the band as they pay homage to hardcore pioneers Bad Brains.
In closure, Fullminator and Out of Hand’s Dialetics of the Cosmic Real is a mix of the bands’ hardcore, thrash and death metal influences fused with some of their horror and sci-fi muses. After delivering a few projects this year that displayed many of his influences, Frankie Maloja comes back Episode 1, a demonstration of more inspirations while presenting what seems to be the first part of a series of experimental EPs. Episode 1 starts with “Ginobili”, a high-energy hip-hop track that finds the artist reflecting on various subjects while showing some of his earl-2010s Kanye influences. Afterwards, “Hatel” is a hip hop song that’ll hypnotize listeners with his sample while Maloja addresses the haters and critics in a song that finds the artist showing off his singing skills and his Caribbean roots. Then “Olvidalo” is a love and sex-driven record that finds the musician exploring more R&B-driven sounds. Next “María” is a soul and gospel inspired hip hop tune that reflects on many of the recent events Puerto Rico has lived through recently, especially Hurricane María and the incompetence in the government.
In summary, Frankie Maloja’s Episode 1 is a great project that finds the artist expanding his sound while delivering a very emotional tune by the end. After releasing various singles across 2022, ONTiNO! takes his first chance at a more complete project with his EP EYESWiDESHUT!!, a short project that encapsulates the artist’s character and many sounds for a larger audience. EYESWiDESHUT! starts with “solong!”, a blend of art pop and indie rock that can be sonically relaxing, but lyrically emotionally draining that also shows the musician’s singing and rapping skills and a bit of his pop punk influences. Afterwards, “CODiCiA!” is a collaboration with Yovng Torres that serves as a space for the artist to display his rapping skills over a trap-inspired beat that experiments a bit with some samples here and there. Finally, “GOTOUGH!” closes the project with a song that blends trap, electronic and industrial music as the musician continues to experiment.
In closing, ONTiNO’s EYESWiDESHUT! is a short presentation of the artist’s openness to explore different sounds while also encapsulating his personality for a broader audience. After releasing STILL FREE in 2021 and providing production for Demesé’s MALICIA, it was only a matter of time before FREEDOM PR released another project under his name. Hence, we get STAY FREE, a collaborative EP much like STILL FREE, but one that finds the producer expanding his soundscapes. STAY FREE starts with “BACK2BACK”, a collaboration with Nolo Boss, Demesé and Jambo that shows FREEDOM PR’s willingness to explore more drill-inspired sounds while giving the rappers space to flex. Afterwards, “TE FUISTE” features Yancci and Kid Baskiat in an emo trap and reggaetón fusion that allows the vocalists to show their singing and rapping skills. Then “ANATOMÍA” is a team effort with Demesé and Jochi Curet that shows some of FREEDOM PR’s new jack swing, R&B, and psychedelic influences. Next “FAVORITA” is an autotune-driven electro pop collab with Joe Ross and Jochi Curet that continues to show FREEDOM’s openness to explore different sounds. Later, “PROBLEMÁTICA” closes the project with vocals from Yancci, Demesé and Nolo Boss in a party de marquesina type of reggaetón tune that’ll have people bailando hasta el piso.
In conclusion, FREEDOM PR’s STAY FREE is a great group effort between the producer and all the vocalists across the EP that shows off the artists’ openness to explore sounds outside of their comfort zone. After releasing a variety of singles across 2021 and 2022, YNG WISE celebrates the Fall by releasing SPOOKYSZN, a project that doesn’t necessarily provide horror-inspired tracks, but certainly the late-night vibe of such an event. SPOOKYSZN starts with “austinpowers”, a funky dance track that definitely serves as a nice party starter. Afterwards, “UDT” is a bouncy trap track with 2000s southern rap influences that provides an energetic late-night energy. Then “WISHLIST” is a love and song-fused trap tune that closes the short project.
In sum, YNG WISE’s SPOOKYSZN is an EP that finds the artist experimenting in his comfort zone while feeding his growing fan base. After releasing 24 KT in 2019, young rapper, producer, and musician Aurelio Adasme has continuously released project after project every year since demonstrating his growth on all fronts, a feat he continues to demonstrate in his latest project, PROSAS I. PROSAS I starts with “Prosas Intro”, a hip hop track that provides space for the artist to reintroduce himself after some time without releasing a project. Afterwards, “Niveles” is a collaboration with MDM 1911 and LAPERRERA that continues the bit of DJ DRAMA mixtape feel of the album this time with a track that features boom bap, soul, and rock elements. Then “Prosas (Interludio)” is a short spoken word with a nice sample to keep listeners entranced. Next “Hay Tiempo” features Karlia in a neo soulish boom bap tune that features what feels like some nice live instrumentation and a hypnotic sample. The second half starts with “Una Canción de Amor”, a collab with Naira that continues to show the artist’s mix of neo soul and boom bap in a beautiful love song that also displays what seems a bit of his MF DOOM influences. After that, “New Hampshire” is a group effort with SOCIVL ELEMENT, Victor Blue and Romedalu Iasea that continues to display the neo soul muses mixed with the DJ DRAMA mixtape vibes and some Tyler the Creator influences while dreambow makes its way into the project. Subsequently, “20 Mil Leguas” smoothly comes in with some of the neo soul production found across the project as Aurelio continues telling the story found across the project before switching into some Dark Twisted Fantasy/Kids See Ghost production at the end. Finally, “Carta Abierta” features Ami in a much brighter production that feels like the brightness at the end of tunnel as the artists jump on a soulful boom bap beat inspired by J Dilla, Madlib, Pete Rock and DJ Premier that also displays Adasme’s rock influences.
In summary, Aurelio Adasme’s PROSAS I is another sharp project by the young musician who continues to display his growth by exploring different sounds while adapting them to his own voice as an artist. “Korea Central”: The Group Expands on Their Various Rock Roots While Reflecting on Recent Events10/14/2022 With a career spanning over a few years now, Korea Central finally released their self-titled sophomore album, a project that finds that band expanding on their folk, indie, blues, alternative and hard rock influences as they continuously blend them with their unique voice that reflects on many of the trials and tribulations Puerto Ricans live through daily. Korea Central starts with “Bajo el sol”, a blend of folk, indie and blues rock that provides a glimpse into the mind of many millennial Puerto Ricans who constantly question what to do when their future provides little opportunities in the archipelago’s current state. Afterwards, “Encuarentena” is a hard rock track that finds the group reflecting on the COVID-19 Pandemic and quarantine lifestyle. Then “Más allá que ayer” is a surreal, acid-rock like tune that finds the ensemble once again reflecting on the future. Next “5:02 AM” is a hard rock song that finds the band reflecting on how doom-like it feels to live in the current state of Puerto Rico, a task they manage to sonically present through a bit of Black Sabbath influence. Later, “Korea Central” is a rock n roll record full of personal introspection. The second half starts with “Amanecido En El Litoral”, an instrumental track that captures the essence of staying up all night or barely sleeping after a late night jangueo and waking up in Mayagüez’s Litoral. After that, “Sí ya sé” is a rock n roll song that presents what seems to be a fallout from a relationship. Subsequently, “Jodio falso” is a blend of punk, stoner rock and hard rock as the ensemble reflects on hypocrisy and fake people. Then “No gracias” is rock n roll record that finds the band demonstrating their Hendrix influences by the end. Next “Noches En La Calle Bosque” serves as a beautiful tribute to Mayagüez and its famous jangueo street. Finally, “Me place no saber” is an introspective look at the life of many young millennial Boricuas who try to find fruitful paths in the archipelago while balancing a life with someone else who might want to go on a different journey.
In sum, Korea Central’s sophomore album is a fantastic follow-up to the band’s previous album as it continues to expand on the group’s soundscape and delves deeper into their balance of introspection and reflection of the current Puerto Rican landscape. After starting their publishing career in 2021 with the release of their album Oeste lo que Cueste!, punk rock band Siebenkäs has continued to release singles that continue reflect and question the current political, economic and social state of Puerto Rico, something they continue to do with their sophomore album ANARQUISMO TROPICAL. ANARQUISMO TROPICAL starts with “Paraiso Tropical Inc.”, a catchy and reflective track that critiques the current gentrification of rich Americans coming to Puerto Rico to avoid taxes and buy land making it difficult for Boricuas to live in their own home. Afterwards, “Matadero en el Bronx” reflects on the work of the Young Lords. Then “Ubi Sunt” is asks listeners to question war and the use of military forces. Next “Los Nuevos Salcedos” is a song that critiques how colonization is taking a new form with the tax evaders and crypto bros who continue to come to Puerto Rico trying to buy and/or construct on land that, more often than not, is not supposed to be used for said purposes. Later, “Lamento Machetero” is a record that critiques the economic state of Puerto Rico and how it needs restructuring. The sixth song, “Alerta Roja” continues to look at gentrification crisis and economic state of the archipelago and how politicians do very little to help the people as they continue feeding the rich. Subsequently, “Grandes Exitos del FBI” takes a shot at the FBI and other potential corrupt agencies and politicians. The second half starts with “Austeridad”, a reflection on the huge economic class difference between the rich and poor in Puerto Rico. After that, “No Pasaran” asks listeners to join forces to protest and make the change they want to see. The tenth track, “Zonas de Sacrificio”, a song that reflects on the many poor communities that have continuously been attacked by big corporations and/or government officials for personal benefits, more specifically those in Peñuelas who have had to endure constant contamination recently. Then “4 de Julio” critiques those who celebrate the 4th of July and those who still believe in statehood as a solution to Puerto Rico’s continuous problems. Next “Rey Momo” uses the figure of King Momo in satirical fashion to critique a few Puerto Rican politicians. Finally, “Contra el Estado” closes the project by once again critiquing political leaders while also providing a possible solution to fix the archipelago’s current crises.
In closing, Siebenkäs’ ANARQUISMO TROPICAL is a politically fueled punk and hardcore album that reflects, critiques and question Puerto Rico’s economic and social state along with its multiple current crises while also looking back at some of the movements that could possibly inspire a change today. After delivering their debut album in 2018, indie pop rock band Dogos performed in and outside the island, and released a few singles and remixes that would serve as the long promotional process behind their sophomore project, Algo X Dentro. Algo X Dentro starts with “Estudiante”, a danceable yet relaxing pop rock tune with synthpop elements that served as the last single before the project’s release and the one which received remixes by the various electronic side projects related to the band. Afterwards, “Cambios De Más” continues the blend of synthpop and indie rock as the group deliver a record that shows off the band’s disco and new wave influences. Then “No Es Fácil” is a dreamy shoegaze/post-punk blend that allows Jorge E. Pérez to deliver some haunting vocals. Next “Nardos” is an indie pop rock song with singer-songwriter and dream pop elements that'll have listeners dancing to the beat or entranced by the poetic lyrics. Later, “Limítrofes” is another shoegaze dream that’ll have listeners entranced. Subsequently, “Dime Juan” is a record that sees the band going back to the synthpop and indie rock mix, which served as the album’s third single and another song that received a remix. Finally, “Bien Visual” is an indie pop rock closure that finds the band bringing tropical and surf rock elements leaving the door open to many possibilities in the future.
In closure, Dogos’ Algo X Dentro is an upbeat indie pop rock project that finds the band seamlessly throwing shoegaze and synthpop to develop their sound, thereby creating a short but concise album that’s expanded by the many remixes that surround it. After the release of his collaborative debut, Palis, back in 2020, rapper and musician LAPERRERA proved himself as one of the most interesting artists to look out for in the near future. Recently, he released his sophomore project, FELICIDADES FRANKIE, a collaboration with Aurelio Adasme that allows him to continue exploring different sounds while displaying his chemistry with a few other musicians. FELICIDADES FRANKIE starts with “INTRO”, a short presentation of the experimentation that could be experienced in the upcoming project. Afterwards, “CABRÓN” is an experimental rap track with some hypnotic organs and percussion that’ll have listeners headbanging. Then “TÚ ME VUELVES LOCO” is a collaboration with Aurelio Adasme and Ami that finds the artists flowing over a bolero sampling experimental hip hop tune that plays easily on the ears. Next “VUELVE” is a mix of synthpop, R&B, and hip hop that allows LAPERRERA to show his singing skills. Later, “FALTA CALLE” features DEMESÉ and Victor Blue in heavily-layered hip hop track that uses psychedelic, soul, and funk samples to enhance the fantastic chemistry between all three musicians. The second half starts with “13 DE MAYO”, a lyrical display by LAPERRERA over some bass-heavy abstract hip hop production with some entrancing synths. After that, Julio Ángel joins the album in “TODO EL MUNDO SE DIVORCIA”, a presentation of synth, industrial, and avant-garde soul influences that’ll make fans of Kanye West and Frank Ocean proud. Subsequently, “LA LUZ” is a collaboration with Julio Del Hoyo that shows off a blend of industrial, hip hop and R&B that continues to exhibit the musician’s versatility in a love-driven track that also takes jabs at the current state of Puerto Rico’s energy and gentrification crisis. Then “MALA MÍA” provides some great boom bap production as LAPERRERA gives a sex-driven lyrical showing that shows a bit of the musician’s storytelling techniques as he reflects on his identity. Finally, “LOVE YOU” closes with Cruda and Ami joining the experience as the crew sings and raps over a psychedelic rock and gospel-sampling beat that celebrates love and friendship.
In sum, LAPERRERA’s FELICIDADES FRANKIE is a fantastic project by a young artist who continues to show that he’s one of the most original voices in the scene right now as he experiments with various abstract sounds and genres to create a unique piece of hip hop. As one of the most active musicians to come out of the scene recently, it was only natural for Joven Frodo444to release a new EP in 2022, especially since it’s become normal for him to publish full-length projects yearly since 2020. This time around he delivers regreso la muerte vol. 2 “hijos de la guerra”, an album that finds the young artist in center stage as he invites others to join him in almost every song. regreso la muerte vol. 2 “hijos de la guerra” starts with “muerciélagos”, a bass-heavy trap, drill and electronic music mix that will surely create moshpits. Afterwards, “trabuco” is a collaboration with Freshi DaPetty and Puki that mixes elements of drill, pop and melodic trap that provides an interesting experience. Then “tracksuit puma” features Gxbo in a more traditional trap track that feels like something for late-night drives. Next “numero 1” is a collab with Pradasb and Jamirr that finds the musicians mixing trap, phonk, and dark synths to create a surreal atmosphere where they decide to flex. Later, “punk ! digital” brings Guoploc into the mix as Joven Frodo444 blends melodic trap, glitch, and pop punk energy to create a song that’ll connect with the younger crowd. Subsequently, “Rodney Mullen” features Daniyy in a hypnotic trap and drill blend that’ll have people dancing and bouncing. Finally, “absurdo” is a collaboration with Vinay that features an entrancing sample on a pop rap and drill mix that closes the project on a high note.
In sum, Joven Frodo444’s regreso la muerte vol. 2 “hijos de la guerra” is a collaborative project between the young artist and many other musicians that allow him to explore different soundscapes while using his hip hop and trap roots as a springboard. After finishing 2021 with EMRDLN and starting 2022 with various singles, Kris Rakim recently delivered the follow-up to the previously mentioned album, EMRDLN 2 (MVSA), a project that continues to show the artist’s rapping abilities and adaptive nature towards different sounds. EMRDLN 2 (MVSA) starts with “Con Calma”, a display of lyrical ability by the artist where he touches on various themes. Afterwards, “Kyrie II” is a hardcore boom bap rap track that allows Kris Rakim to show off his techniques on the mic. Then “Fre$h Prince” is another tune full of flexing as the musician takes on beat inspired by trap and drill that’ll hypnotize listeners with its string sample. Next “No Forcen” is another song that continues exploring similar genres as the previous as Rakim continues exploring bass-heavy sounds mixed with a bit of melody. Later, “En El Club” continues the trap and drill mix in a sex-driven record made for late-night parties and strip clubs. The second half starts with “Bailando Sola”, a collaboration with Yirex that has both artists delivering a house banger. After that, “Pa’ Olvidarte” finds Rakim mixing trap elements with reggaetón in an exploration of heartbreak. Subsequently, “La Bendición (Mvsa Interlude)” is a collection of blessings by people close to Kris Rakim over a hypnotic boom bap beat. Finally, “Mvsa” closes the project with some hardcore boom bap where the young rapper flexes his lyrical status while reflecting on his creative process and status in the industry.
In closure, Kris Rakim’s EMRDLN 2 (MVSA) is a great sequel to the original as the young musician manages to deliver rap heavy tracks while showing his versatility over other genres like house music, reggaetón, drill, and more. After releasing PResente earlier this year as well as a few other singles, Reyes††† positioned himself firmly in the scene once more, a task he continues alongside Yanco in their latest project, RAP ISLA, an EP that finds them using lo-fi hip hop roots to explore other sounds. RAP ISLA starts with “PAZ & MARIHUANA”, a lo-fi psychedelic rap track that finds the young rapper reflecting on the beauty of peace and how kush can enhance it. Afterwards, “PATRIA” uses classic boom bap production to reflect and critique the island’s current political status. Then “POR MI BIENESTAR” is a disco and dance-inspired production that’ll have listeners shaking their hips and feet all the way to the ground. Next “PAL DE AMBIENTE” finds the rappers going back to boom bap production as they deliver bars over some soulful jazz rap production. Finally, “SONIDO ISLEÑO” closes the project with a dance track that begs listeners to think about the current state of Puerto Rico’s political status.
In summary, Reyes††† & Yanco’s RAP ISLA is a fantastic collaborative EP by both young artists as they show off their skills over boom bap-inspired hip hop and a couple of dance tracks. After delivering a few singles in 2021, Cartagena compiles these and a few more tracks in his latest project, Jigante, a short EP that displays the artist’s hip hop sound mixed with a few others that are outside of his comfort zone while also delivering his first complete project in quite a few years. Jigante starts with “Capicú”, a lyrical display of the rapper’s skill over an entrancing beat. Afterwards, “Draco” is a mix of trap and drill that finds that artist again displaying his lyrical skills while exploring a different sound and entrancing listeners with it a hypnotic sample. Then “Kebab (Refe Jehza)” is another tune that finds the artist flexing over a beat inspired by rap, trap, and drill. Next “Refe 1 (J Balvin)” is a more of a traditional hip hop tune that finds the rapper flexing while slowing things down and reflecting in his people. Later, “Estilo Libre II” is a soulful boom bap song that finds the rapper showing off his lyrical skills while reflecting on recent experiences. Finally, “16-8” is another display of the artist’s abilities as he flexes over the beat.
Summing up, Cartagena’s Jigante is a short EP that almost serves as a mixtape and reminder of the artist’s lyrical skills as he explores a few different sounds but for the most part stays in the hip hop comfort zone. After releasing Ejpol in the 2022 summer, Frankie Maloja didn’t waste time and immediately released his sophomore EP, Vórtice, another short project that continue to show his roots while giving space to other genres he wishes to explore across his career. Vórtice starts with “Pcem”, an acronym that means “Pa’l Carajo El Miedo” that shows some of the musician’s salsa influences before diving into his blend of atmospheric vibes and a little bit of reggaaetón that allows him to display his singing and rapping skills. Afterwards, “Penca” is an atmospheric, synth, and industrial mix that serves as a display of the artist’s Kanye West influences. Then “Diezyocho” shows how the musician is open to exploring his Caribbean roots while mixing them with some of his hip hop muses. Next “Positivo” is a combo of synthpop and hip hop that starts off chill before gaining some speed and then relaxing once more. Later, “Todo” takes a hypnotic guitar sample and blends it with some relaxing trap-inspired R&B that allows the musician to reflect on his needs while showing some singer-songwriter and Frank Ocean influences. After that, “Valle de Sombra Interlude” blends gospel and reggaetón so the artist can reflect on his goals and his want of leaving a legacy behind. Finally, “Fogata” is an electronic and dance-music inspired tune that’ll slowly end parties.
In closure, Frankie Maloja’s Vórtice is a continuation of the musician’s sound exploration as he shows a bit of his roots, but mainly focuses on blending genres and exploring music outside of his comfort zone allowing him to display his adaptability and versatility. After starting his career in 2020 by releasing singles non-stop till 2022, Frankie Maloja displayed many of the sounds he wished to explore, something he continues to do in his debut EP Ejpol, a short project that shows listeners his comfort zone along with some genres he’s willing to mix into his repertoire. Ejpol starts with “Cheki”, a reggaetón and ethereal vibe blend that shows the artist’s singing abilities. Afterwards, “Ejpol” is a kush and sex-driven track that continues exploring similar sounds to the previous song. Then “Inusual Bounce 3” is a mix of synths, R&B and reggaetón that shows a bit of the artist’s versatility. Next “Epoca” is an experimental combination of industrial, afrobeat, dancehall, and funk that continues to demonstrate some flexibility. Later, “Leal” explores loyalty and heartbreak through some atmospheric ambient music. After that, “Weivi” is a mix of reggaetón and synthpop that’ll have listeners slow dancing or driving through the night. Finally, “Tesla” is an exploration of trap, drill and glitch sounds that provide a glimpse of what the future might bring for the young artist.
In sum, Frankie Maloja’s Ejpol is an EP that serves as a good introduction for new listeners as the artist shows off some of his roots as a musician, but also some of the genres he wishes to blend into his sazón of sounds. “PINEAPPLE STATUS”: Ebano Flowlanski Takes Listeners Down an Experimental Drug and Gangster Journey10/3/2022 With a career that continues to show a very firm and strong work ethic, Ebano Flowlanski has made 2022 one of his most active years as he keeps releasing project after project, the most recent of these being PINEAPPLE STATUS, a short EP that shows the beatmaker’s continuously growing experimental sound. PINEAPPLE STATUS starts with “PURA PINEAPPLE”, an experimental hip hop track that introduces listeners to the potential gangster and drug-filled EP. Afterwards, “PINEAPPLE KING” is another experimental tune that mixes sounds reminiscent of 1970s horror and gangster movies. Then “BIG MONE$$$” is an atmospheric and abstract production that continues to take listeners down the path of the drug world. Next “BILLETE PIKETE” is a more traditional boom bap track that still feels like a psychedelic trip through the drug-filled underworld. Later, “RICH N$$$$” is another song that finds the producer experimenting with soundscapes that are outside of comfort zone while following some hip hop fundamentals. Finally, “DULCE MONEY MONEY” closes the project with a balance of traditional hip hop production and some of Ebano’s experimental sounds that keep the listener hooked with an entrancing sample in the back.
In sum, Ebano Flowlanski’s PINEAPPLE STATUS is a project that continues demonstrating Ebano’s experimental side while still showing his hip hop comfort zone. As one of the most active singers and rappers in the scene, Bombyy has shown a lot of versatility by exploring hip hop, trap, R&B and other sounds across his discography, something he continues to do in his latest three-track EP, DOBLE Y. DOBLE Y starts with “JOCEO”, a blend of melodic trap and lyrical hip hop that finds Bombyy rapping about his focus and continuous grind. Afterwards, “.500” is a trap and drill blend that features a hypnotic sample which allow Bombyy to display his blend of rapping and singing. Finally, “NO ME RONQUEN” is another display of the young musician’s abilities over another entrancing beat by Jace.
In conclusion, Bombyy’s DOBLE Y is a short and to-the-point display of Bombyy’s latest musical exploration as he continues to show off his balance of rapping and singing. |
AuthorFernando E. E. Correa González is the author behind over 30 self-published poetry books. He has been published by literary magazines & journals [Id]entidad, El Vicio del Tintero, Sábanas Magazine, Smaeralit, The Occulum, Tonguas and Hound Magazine. Other than writing, Correa is also the host of FENCast, a podcast dedicated to documenting the Puerto Rican independent art scene. Aside from this, he experiments with filmmaking, photography, drawing, painting, multimedia and transmedia. He currently lives in his native Puerto Rico. Archives
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