“Prisma Bonus Tracks”: Kheb & Solecito’s Experimental Leftovers Show a Glimpse into a Cool Future7/12/2022 Earlier this year, producers Kheb and Solecito joined forces to release the beat tape Prisma, a project that found them experimenting with lo-fi instrumental hip hop in different ways. Prisma Bonus Tracks provides some of the tracks that could’ve served as a last act to those sessions. Prisma Bonus Tracks starts with “Untitled”, an interesting experimental tune that mixes elements of glitch, phonk and classic video game music. Afterwards, “Reflection 2.0” features Young Rvy on a beat that shows a bit of bossa nova influences. Then “YM Flip Beat” serves as a relaxing record that’ll make fans of classic Southern rap remember their childhood. Finally, “Enlightened” is a collaboration with mon-T 333% that finds the musicians delving into psychedelic, space rock and surreal-inspired atmospheres. Overall, Kheb and Solecito’s Prisma Bonus Tracks is an interesting experiment that shows the different directions the beatmakers are willing to explore while serving as a potential look of what their future might look when left to their own devices.
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After starting his career with the 2021 EP Crescendo alongside Andregutti, rapper and singer Joshoboreleased a few singles before finally releasing his debut album CONSTELACIÓN, an album that shows his blend of melodic trap and R&B with other sounds as the young musician introduces himself to larger audiences. CONSTELACIÓN starts with “Mayo 5 Introducción”, a melodic trap tune that finds the young musician reflecting on his life and career. Afterwards, “suben BAJAN” is a slow-paced mix of rap and melody that finds the rapper reflecting on his earlier struggles, family, and money. Then Joshobo presents “tamo MEJOR”, a track where mixes elements of R&B as he decides to flex and sing about his ambitions. Next, “personajes FICTICIOS” brings a hypnotic beat as Joshobo reflects on the state of art and content creation and how a lot of it features people faking their way to the top. After that, “Eärendil Interludio” serves as an interesting instrumental beat where Joshobo displays a bit of his experimental side while showing a bit of his nerdy side. Subsequently, “foul y VALE” is a love-driven song that allows the young musician to continue playing around with R&B. Later, in “sin PIEDAD” features Candress as both singers continue exploring love and sex-fueled lyrics in R&B soundscapes. Next, in “ROTO” Rossi TLT joins the party in a reggaetón record that continues the recent string of love and sex-driven sounds. “de tu PARTE” with Andregutti finishes the first half of the project in a “party de marquesina” type of reggaetón tune that will definitely play well in clubs. The second part of the album begins with “DISTANCIA”, a track that shows Joshobo experimenting with dreambow and psychedelic influences. Then “Sgr A Interludio” serves as a brief break that reflects on earlier years. Next “desde CERO” finds Linasty and Mala.B joining the party in a pop rap song that provides a hypnotic sample as the musicians reflect on their ambitions. Afterwards, “ski MASK” features Young Verza, Vngel and James Painz in a bass-heavy record that’s all about flexing. Subsquently, “13 llamadas PERDIDAS” brings JulianXJota and YAYA in a story-driven drill track. Later, “Frío” serves as a display of Joshobo’s ability to make a hit. “HOLD UP FREEZESTYLE I” continues the project going as Joshobo raps and sings over an entrancing string-driven beat. Then, in “Piensálo” Joshobo experiments with reggaetón and afrobeat in a very danceable blend. Finally, “Andrómeda Conclusión” closes the album beautifully as Joshobo plays around with live analogue instruments opening the door to different interpretations of what his future might look like.
Overall, Joshobo’s CONSTELACIÓN is a great display of the young musician’s melodic trap and R&B sounds mixed with others such as reggaetón, afrobeat, pop rap and drill as he presents himself to a larger range of spectators. After releasing their first EP Guerra in 2021, religious rock group Marcados Por La Sangre made it their mission to put out a full-length project in 2022, a goal they accomplished with Guerra Espiritual, an album that lyrically might detract listeners who don’t like religion but one that musically can stand its ground with any other project in the heavy music categories. Guerra Espiritual starts with “Intro | Guerra”, a blend of metalcore and thrash metal that’ll definitely create a mosh pit among those who aren’t listening to the lyrics. Afterwards, “Impulso” is display of the band’s traditional heavy metal influences as they reflect on how people could be better if they learn to handle their impulses. Then the band presents “Todo Cambió”, a track that finds them experimenting with synths and heavier vocals with their thrash metal sound. Next the project provides “Clamor” is another tune that displays the band’s blend of heavy and thrash metal as they reflect on how God can serve as an example to follow, especially in difficult times. After that, “Muñeca Rota” is a record that starts with a slow intro that eventually fills up with adrenaline and turns into a headbanger’s dream. The second half of the album begins with “Cuento de Hada”, a display of thrash metal, sludge metal, metalcore and traditional heavy metal influences. Subsequently, “Nos Dió Libertad”, a tune that praises Jesus’ sacrifice. Then “Control” serves as another presentation of the band’s thrash and heavy metal influences in a record where they praise God. Next “Él Es Rey” finds the band using surreal vocals and blending them with their thrash metal brand. Finally, the project delivers “Demostró Su Poder”, a great way to end their album as they bring forth all the previous sounds into one song.
Overall, Marcados Por La Sangre’s Guerra Espiritual is a religious metal project that might not be to everyone’s liking due to the lyrics, but musically it’s one that might attract fans of any form of heavy music. After releasing an EP in 2018 and a few singles in 2022, Puerto Rican ska pioneers Los Inconformes released IV, an album that displays their signature ska sound mixed with other genres along the way. IV starts with “Recluso”, a song that features La Mio from Piquete to reflect on how we affect ourselves by staying at home and not doing much to change our surroundings. Afterwards, “Cuando Te Veo” is a love-driven ska tune that’ll make some feet move around. Then Los Inconformes present “Inconforme”, a rebellious track alongside Puya’s Sergio that displays the band’s heavy metal influences. Next the project delves into “Maldito Sabio”, a more traditional ska record that displays storytelling techniques as the group reflects on what could happen when one lives a life without any responsibilities or consequences. Afterwards, “RRRatas” closes the first half of the project with a very danceable and moshpit-worthy ska punk and hardcore mix that critiques Puerto Rico’s corrupt government and political leaders. The second part of the album starts with “Otra Vez”, a track that goes back to familiar territory as the ensemble uses ska punk to share a tale full of heartache. Subsequently, “Vuelvo de Nuevo” finds the band mixing hard rock and hardcore influences with their trumpets. Then, “El Sabio” continues the story setup in “Maldito Sabio” but from what seems to be the perspective of the title character. Next, “Tu Papá” shows the band having fun playing ska punk mixed with ranchera music. Finally, the project delivers “Este Pa’ Ti”, a rebellious nu metal and punk record that explores the freedom of self-expression.
Overall, Los Inconformes’s IV is a fast-paced project where the band displays their brand of ska while mixing it with a few different sounds. Thus, making it an entertaining experience that doesn’t overstay its welcome. After releasing Amolao Hasta El Cabo and a single in 2021, rock band Los Hijos de la Caña decided to kick off 2022 with Fuego a debut album that shows them exploring various topics while keeping their influences close to their hearts. Fuego starts with “La Tarjeta (Vamo’a Beber)”, a song heavily inspired hard rock bands like Aerosmith and Mötley Crüe in a song that celebrates partying and drinking alcohol. Afterwards, “La Victoria de Siempre” is another glam rock inspired tune that critiques people in power who make promises but never fulfill them because they’re only looking to fill their pockets. Then Los Hijos present “Adrenalina”, a hard rock track that displays some of the band’s heavier influences. Next the project delves into “El Rapto (Regreso Mañana)”, a fast-paced tune that mixes punk and glam rock much like Guns N Roses and Mötley Crüe did back in the day. After that Los Hijos “Latifundio Digital”, a heavy metal song that reflects and critiques the current state of social media. The second half of the project starts with “Escapao Contigo (Quiero Un Beso)”, a glam rock tune that displays love-driven storytelling. Subsequently, “Hambre de Rock” is a record that celebrates the freedom rock n roll can provide after working every day. Then, “Chamuscao” puts in full display the band’s blues rock influences as they display more storytelling techniques. Finally, the project closes with “Castillitos de Cristal”, an instrumental ballad that closes the project in a relaxing way.
Overall, Los Hijos de la Caña’s Fuego is a project that’ll entertain fans of glam rock, hard rock, and blues rock, especially those who’re constantly listening to bands from the 1970s and 1980s and are looking to listen to that particular sound but from a different perspective. After debuting in 2015 with the critically acclaimed Se Nos Fue La Mano, Alegría Rampante released a few singles across 2019 and 2021, but it wouldn’t be until April 2022 that they would release their second project, Poblado, one that celebrates Puerto Rico’s indie music scene while reflecting on it, its struggles and the spaces that have seen it change, shape and evolve. Poblado starts with “Jirafa”, the first single released back in 2019 which features vocals from Fofe Abreuas the band explores sounds that would make fans of David Bowie, Electric Light Orchestra and YES happy in a tune that explores identity while asking listeners to resist and perdure in difficult political and economic times. Afterwards, “Matorral” features help from Jorge Bebo Rivera as art rock and post-punk are mixed with haunting vocals in a song that reflects on communication. Then Alegría Rampante presents “Vista Desde El Monte – Poblado 1”, a collaboration with Enrique Bayoan Ríos Escribiano which serves as an instrumental guitar track with minimal vocals in the background. Next the project provides “Por Ahora Camino Solo” with Chango Menas, a dreamy pop track that features rock switches that would make fans of early Meat Loaf proud as the musicians reflect on how independent Puerto Rican musicians have continued to try and survive in a landscape mostly dominated by salsa in the past and most recently reggaetón. Afterwards, Poblado moves towards “Un Soldado”, a song with Janice Maisonet and Tony Escapa that displays some art rock, disco and funk influences . Subsequently, “Camp Soldat” is a collaboration with José Cienaga that features electro pop, ambient and new wave influences in an atmospheric and surreal sound experience. The second half of the project starts with “Ciudad Fantasma”, a collaboration with Los Wálters which served as the second single of the album back in 2020 and one that again finds the Alegría blending synth pop and surreal imagery. Then Macha Colón joins Poblado in “Todo en Su Sitio”, the first track in the project that feels like a happy and danceable track as the musicians show influences from 1970s and 1980s pop rock, glam rock and power pop. Next “Le Alcalde – Poblado 2” features Enrique Bayoan Ríos Escribiano once again as the musicians join in a relaxing blend of guitars, synths and tropical vibes giving the listeners a chance to digest the experience so far before finishing with the upcoming songs. After that “Sajorí” brings singer/songwriter Andrea Cruz into the foray as the musicians use 1990s alternative rock ballad-influences to create a beautiful display of abstract storytelling. Next “La Ruta Larga” serves as another ambitious collaboration with MIMA and Sr. Langosta joining Poblado as the musicians join forces to provide a haunting atmosphere while they reflect on one’s position as an elder in what seems to be a young person’s field. Finally, the project finishes with “Este Cuarto Crece”, a tune that finds Alegría reflecting on how an idea is slowly given birth from a person’s room and can eventually gain a life outside of said space.
Overall, Alegría Rampante’s Poblado is an epic display of many influences that make it feel like a rock opera/concept album inspired by classics like Sgt. Pepper’s, Tommy, Animals and Maestra Vida while celebrating and reflecting on Puerto Rico’s independent art scene. After starting his career with singles from 2017 all the way to 2022, JeanGa finally decided to release a complete body of work in his debut mixtape, LEVEL UP, a project that finds him compiling his skills to display a presentation letter for a bigger audience. LEVEL UP starts with “EN LA MIA”, an entrancing rap track that finds JeanGa reflecting on his career, many of the tribulations he’s gone through and how he’s ultimately overcome them all to slowly find his own path into the industry. Afterwards, “PRENDIMOS” is a rap and trap blend that shows JeanGa’s ability to mix his rapping skills with melody. Then the rapper presents “BACK TO BACK”, an experimental hip hop tune that mixes classic Latin sounds with traditional trap and even snap rap influences while JeanGa flexes on the beat. Next the project delves into the realm of classic reggaetón as JeanGa presents “NO LA LLAMES”, a track where he gets to display a bit of his storytelling techniques. Afterwards, LEVEL UP moves to “ALUCINÁNDOTE”, a song that continues to show JeanGa’s fearlessness towards experimentation as he autotunes his way over a highly danceable house beat. Subsequently, “OTRA MAS FREESTYLE” features JeanGa rapping over a fantastic boom bap beat that allows him to display his freestyling skills while the sample in the background entrances the listener. Finally, the project ends with “MARK OF CAIN: 444”, another display of JeanGa’s rapping skills as he reflects on his life and career while showing some of his soul influences at the same time.
Overall, JeanGa’s LEVEL UP ‘THE MIXTAPE’ serves as a presentation letter for the musician as he displays many of the skills he had shown previously while experimenting with new sounds in a balanced compilation that will certainly please old and new fans. After starting his career with a variety of singles exploring a wide range of sounds ever since 2019, lil joujourecently released Soñando en PR, a compilation that serves as an introduction letter to a broader audience. Soñando en PR starts with “Mmm Mmm”, a collaboration with RaiNao a fun and catchy pop trap banger that shows his ability to create a hit. Next, “Neptuno” is a collaboration with Sahir that finds both artists flexing over a trap/drill influenced beat. Afterwards, Enyel C joins in “Nena”, a relaxing love-driven tune that mixes the featured artist’s dreamy lo-fi aesthetics with lil joujou’s rapping and singing skills. Subsequently, “Stripper X”features Young Miko in an entrancing banger that will surely play well in late night clubs. “Offbeat Freestyle” kicks off the second part of the project as a danceable production that features the young musician flexing once more. Then Rvsell joins the party in “Top Now” a bass heavy production that’ll definitely have people jumping and/or creating mosh pits. Later, “Lo Noto” displays his command of the reggaeton sound as he seamlessly flows over the beat. Finally, the ballad “Paz y Amor” closes the project as the young musician reflects and encourages listeners to enjoy life, appreciate the good times and thank those who have always brought good into one’s life and even those who haven’t in a track where he shows off his Kid Cudi influences.
Overall, lil joujou’s Soñando en PR is a fantastic encapsulation of his sound while featuring many collaborations that elevate the project. Hopefully, a future project will feature more songs where he’s the sole star. After starting his career with a variety of singles ever since 2019, rapper and singer YUNG BOI finally makes his full-length debut with what seems to be the first part of a much larger project in chico joven vol. 1, an album that serves as an encapsulation of his sound and what he’s willing to explore. chico joven vol. 1 starts with “feka”, a collaboration with pabloboah that mixes trap and R&B with lo-fi aesthetics. Afterwards, “5am” is another mix of R&B and trap soundscapes, but this time with some psychedelic visuals as the musician uses them to display his storytelling abilities. Next, “Supongamos” finds Jovaan and Joedyyrt joining the mix in another love-driven track. Subsquently, “memorias” serves as a display of BOI’s reggaeton flow as he presents another love-driven track. “too much </3” starts the second half of the album as YUNG BOI mixes his emo trap aesthetics with some hypnotic acoustic guitar samples that’ll definitely connect with a broad range of listeners. Then Channeland Joedyyrt join in “se me olvida”, an interesting exploration of love and memories across an entrancing beat that blends bass heavy trap and synth pop. Finally, the project closes with “el nivel”, a short collaboration with Fara that shows some banger potential.
Overall, YUNG BOI’s chico joven vol. 1 is a nice love-driven project that finds the musician presenting his blend of R&B, reggaeton and trap to a broader audience while collaborating with various artists. After starting his career with a variety of singles in 2019 and moving on from there till releasing his EP DÉJÀ VU in 2021, SHARIF RAFAEL continued releasing more tracks till earlier this year when he released a new EP titled UNDERGROUND KING where he remains displaying his versatility over a variety of sounds. UNDERGROUND KING kicks off with “44”, a fantastic boom bap production that finds the young musician reflecting on his young career while expressing his goals alongside a little bit of flexing. Then, “LA MALA” presents RAFAEL’s reggaeton flow in a love-driven tune. Next “ABILITY” serves as another display of the musician’s skills on a reggaeton beat, but this time a much more upbeat one. Subsequently, “MEMORIA” shows RAFAEL blending his rapping and singing abilities in a mix of R&B and melodic trap in another love-driven song. Finally, “SECRETO” serves as yet another display of RAFAEL’s mastery of the reggaeton sound as he seamlessly sings over the beat.
Overall, SHARIF RAFAEL’s UNDERGROUND KING is a short display of SHARIF RAFAEL’s skills over boom bap, reggaeton and R&B production as he shows his versatility while also paying homage to the sounds that fulfill him. After starting his career in 2020 and 2021 with a variety of EPs (Gigi and clasico) and albums (demasía and 30 monedas de plata) that displayed his interests in alternative and experimental pop and R&B, young musician Uno Santo starts 2022 with amane, another EP that continues to display his love for pop and the avant-garde. amane starts with “misa misa”, a fast-paced electronic tune that blends this sound with Uno Santo’s R&B vocal tracks. Afterwards, “difunto sin nombre” finds the young musician his R&B vocals on what feels like an anime rock-inspired soundscape. Next, Joven join in “dos semana”, which closes the first half of the project in an experimental mix of reggaeton, jungle and acoustic sounds alongside Joven. “morto” starts the second part of the EP, an experimental tune that shows Uno Santo’s willingness to go full avant-garde. Subsequently, “inrii – Special Version”, a collaboration with Afonso that finds both rapping over an experimental instrumental that plays around with psychedelic/lo-fi reggaetón. Finally, “escondite escondite” is a collaboration with Julio Angel and Taiana that shows the young musician closing on a more radio-friendly track this mixes R&B with psychedelic trap vibes.
Overall, Uno Santo’s amane is a short, but fantastic display of his seamless balancing act of pop-driven sounds and more avant-garde-driven experimentation that sets him apart from everyone else in the scene. As one of the most active hip hop artists on the scene, Ebano Flowlanski showed his workflow in 2021 by releasing a variety of projects and 2022 seems like it won’t stop him as he recently released his third project this year in the form of UNDERGROUND 3, another beat tape that continues to show his mastery of the boom bap sound while displaying his storytelling abilities and willingness to go outside of his comfort zone. The first part of UNDERGROUND 3 features the tracks “Ella Me Odia”, “Blunt Con Chopin”, “Punto Chinita”, “Queen Lust”, “Low Rider”, “1000 el G” and “Metodo Avispa”. These tunes display Ebano’s storytelling, sequencing, and his understanding over the classic boom bap genre. In addition, he manages to play around with psychedelic, trap and experimental sounds that make this project different from others he’s released recently. Afterwards, “Jerly Curl Anthem”, “Blunt Power”, “Status Vedette”, “Bliky Man”, “Let It Be Known”, “Ke Kiere Muzik” and “Presiona El Boton” serve as the second part of the project. These tracks kick off with a hypnotic boom bap loop as they continue to explore what seems like the story or thought process behind this beat tape: an introspective look at one’s status in the industry. At the same time, Flowlanski manages to display influences such as salsa, soul, and electronic music. Meanwhile, the closing track serves as a perfect closure that encompasses not only the sonic thesis, but also the thought process behind the entire production.
Overall, Ebano Flowlanski’s UNDERGROUND 3 is a demonstration of his command over boom bap while exploring different sounds and looking into his status in the industry despite his amazing workflow. “Angelito”: Enyel C Provides an Excellent Presentation Letter to Those Outside of His Following5/2/2022 After catching some traction with his single “Santini” back in 2018, Enyel C continued releasing singles and EPs (Newborn Pleasure! and UNDERGROUND 99) where continued to expand his sound. Recently, the Puerto Nuevo musician released his debut album Angelito, a project that finds him establishing his sound while presenting himself to a broader audience. Angelito kicks off with its title track, a tune that finds Enyel C showing some of his lo-fi boom bap influences mixed with R&B, synth pop and bedroom pop vibes while capturing a bit of what it feels like to be a person who wants to be a master of all trades. Afterwards, “Polaris” serves as a lo-fi hip hop and trap blend that shows his ability to make a banger. Then Yensanjuan joins the party for “Nash”, a song that finds both artists flexing about their greatness over a bouncy beat that feature some hypnotic guitar strings. Next, “Bienpuestopaltike” serves as an experimental, almost freestyle-like track that finds Enyel C exploring a different vocal inflection while presenting what feels like a weed trip. Subsequently, the first half of the album closes with “Angelito y Robertito”, a hypnotic psychedelic boom bap collaboration with Robertito Chong that displays the artists’ seamless chemistry over some smooth-as-butter production. The second half of Angelito starts with “Io No C”, a collaboration with YUNG BOI that finds them exploring love over some trap-driven production that gives off pop punk vibes. Then “Ta To” shows Enyel C singing over some reggaeton sounds alongside Diego Raposo in a very catchy track. Later, “Honey” displays the musician’s ability to mix his traditional rap-driven sound with rock soundscapes as he pays homage to his cat Ringo. Finally, the project closes with “Hola! Remix”, a collaborative dance banger with Irepelusa that feels like a bonus track in the same way those after credits scenes from the MCU that serve as a cherry on top of a fantastic experience.
Overall, Enyel C’s Angelito is a perfect amalgamation of the young musician’s work. It is a project that will make his following happy and proud while inviting newer listeners to his already established world of lo-fi hip hop, alternative trap, R&B, and unique aesthetics that will receive many replays on my part. After a very full 2021 with three albums to his name, IVVS continues to stay pretty active in 2022 with the two-song EP Test Me/Fading Away Slowly, a short project that displays more of the experimentation he has shown previously. Test Me/Fading Away Slowly starts with the dreamy and electronic song “Test Me” explores entrancing psychedelic sounds that’ll capture the attention of listeners. Afterwards, “Fading Away Slowly” serves as a presentation of his guitar-driven musical abilities as he sings exactly about the subject in the song’s title in a slow, melodic, patient, and atmospheric tune.
Overall, IVVS’ latest EP demonstrates that he continues to experiment with different sounds despite him slowing down on the amount of music he releases month by month. After releasing a few mixtapes on Soundcloud, east side rapper and poet Reyes††† finally makes his Spotify debut with the project PResen†e, an EP that finds him collaboratin with SAAVEDRA and Kheb to provide an update on his life and the reflections that run across his mind. PResen†e starts with “Asistencia Perfecta”, a song that serves as perfect introduction for those who haven’t listened to the rapper as he shows his rapping and spoken word skills. Next, “Busca Diferente” finds the young artist reflecting on the present and future as he raps on a beat influenced by psychedelia, electronic and Latin sounds. Afterwards, “Doble Moral” presents Reyes††† continuing to expand on the sounds presented in the previous track while reflecting on conscious hip hop, weed and the current Puerto Rican political status. Then “Nunca Superé” shows the musician exploring love-fueled lyrics in another psychedelic rap tune. Finally, the EP closes with “Cuidate la Mente”, a dance music, psychedelia and lo-fi influenced boom bap song that suggests listeners to practice self-care.
Overall, Reyes†††’s PResen†e is a nice reminder to listeners that the young artist is still present and experimenting with different sounds to expand his growing discography. In addition, the project also displays the musician’s personal and artistic growth as he slowly comes back to the scene. As the underground trap continued to grow in Puerto Rico, some of the most active musicians became duo OMVR X JC and solo act Gaby Chuleta. After many collaborations in singles, the three musicians got together in 2018 to release EP Dios Bendiga El Trap, a project that cemented them as some of the artists to look out for in the scene. Recently, they reunited to release the sequel DBET 2 where they continue to display their chemistry when they work as a trio. DBET 2 begins with “Cocolo”, a dark, but laid-back track that slowly reintroduces the vibe that trio carry when they get together. Then “Antetokounmpo” serves as a bass heavy and hypnotic trap tune that’ll definitely play well live as it’ll most likely inspire mosh pits or hasta bajo perreos or twerk sessions. Afterwards, “Jefe De Que?” is a fun and bouncy song that continues the party started by the previous track as the artists reflect on their hustle. Finally, “MDB” closes the project as the trio once again display their chemistry over a beat that is driven by a mesmerizing piano as they touch on various topics namely haters, street life, and the grind.
In sum, DBET 2 is a great display of the fantastic chemistry OMVR X JC and Gaby Chuleta share when they get together as they continue to explore beats that mix elements of trap, psychedelia, Latin sounds, and dark atmospheres. After starting their production career in 2018 with their self-debut album, instrumental rock project A Place Beyond Giants took a brief hiatus and now returned with a short, but delicious EP, Somewhere In Between, that’ll definitely satisfy fans and newcomers. Somewhere In Between kicks off with “Oldest New”, a track influenced by math rock, jazz and metal that’ll have listeners dancing in different ways. Afterwards, “Tropic Thunder” features the band fusing the aforementioned influences along with Latin jazz and salsa sounds. Then “Sodoku” puts the band back into the mosh pit as they show off more of their math rock and metal voice and mix it with some electronic elements. Next “Cheers to the Poison” kicks things off a little slow before going into its very rhythmic and danceable vibe that again features some Latin rock influences and might have some thinking of old school fighting games. Finally, “Tiny People” closes the EP as an encapsulation of everything the band showed across the project as well as what they might continue to expand on in future endeavors.
Overall, A Place Beyond Giants’ Somewhere In Time is a fantastic return by the band as they once again deliver some great instrumental rock while paying homage to influences such as jazz, Latin rock, math rock and Latin jazz to create a short project worthy of any dance floor or classic fighting game. After releasing quite a few singles across the last two years as well as performing while a few spaces opened across the island, folk musician Walter Morciglio recently released a two-song EP, Espacio Cero, where he displays a bit of experimentation with his singer-songwriting background as a backdrop. Espacio Cero starts with the slow, melodic, and almost atmospheric “Espacio 0”, which displays Walter’s singer-songwriting skills as well his poetic abilities. The project then closes with “Irremediable”, a tune that finds the musician exploring with electronic and hip hop sounds further expanding his repertoire and promising a more experimental future.
Overall, Walter Morciglio’s Espacio Cero is a sweet and to-the-point project that finds the artist experimenting with different genres that continue to expand his growing discography. The past few years has demonstrated the resilience of the Puerto Rican independent and underground music scene. One of the bands that has continued to stay active throughout the years has been Martyr’s Tongue, a task they continue to display with their latest effort Martyr’s X Siempre, which finds them collaborating with ensemble Zaratustra por Siempre. Martyr’s X Siempre starts with “Oda A Valquiria”, a slow intro that suddenly turns into a powerful blend of heavy and thrash metal. Afterwards, “Paimón” displays the groups’ more melodic sides as they seem to blend traditional heavy metal with a bit of stoner rock, crossover thrash and even grindcore. Next, “Dide Loke” closes the first half of the EP in a display of experimentation with noise, electronic, ambient, and industrial sounds. The second part of the project kicks off with “Fase De Negación”, a showing of the artists’ hardcore influences. Then, “El Abismo” finds the ensembles gathering their forces for a crossover thrash, grindcore, and melodic blend that asks listeners for introspection. Finally, Martyr’s X Siempre closes with “Storm Riding”, a tune with hip hop and electronic influences that finds the artists getting out of their comfort zone in a fun way.
In sum, Martyr’s X Siempre is a fantastic showing of what two metal projects can do when all their minds get together and let their influences run free to create an experimental EP where not only do they create different sounds but have fun doing so. After starting his career with some singles, a few collaborations with his crew Real Dead Boys and an EP in <3<3<3, singer/rapper/producer Spr!ng decided to kick off 2022 with the single “sobrepeso 2” and the new album chrome, a project that finds experimenting with different alternative sounds once again. chrome starts with its title track, a glitchy and hyperpop influenced tune that shows Spr!ng addressing drug use, relationships and haters. Afterwards, in “te quiero olvidar” Spr!ng continues to explore drug use, but this time in the context of using them as an escape. Next “in my bag” finds the artist collaborating with pabloboah in a tune where the explore the subject of love, hustling and how these can intertwine. Then Spr!ng closes the first part of chrome with “me voy en contra”, a collaboration with 1aizea that features elements from glitch, phonk, hyperpop and southern rap. The second section of the project starts with “como estas”, a song with Blackcrow where both musicians continue to explore love across more experimental soundscapes. Subsequently, “amanecer” is a track with Antmoney where both show their melodic and rapping skills on more avant-garde production. Finally, “lagrimas y lamentos (outro)” closes the project as Spr!ng sings over much more laid back production in what feels like a complete release and ending of what was once a promising relationship.
Overall, Spr!ng’s chrome is another display of the musician’s expanding voice as he balances his experimental blend of electronic, hip hop and pop sounds with the familiar subject of love while collaborating with various members of the Real Dead Boys collective. After starting his career with some singles across 2021 and 2022, Lendezzz finally formally presents himself with LOVER8OY, an EP where he explores the main subject of his namesake through a variety of sounds. LOVER8OY starts with “¿VUELVES?”, a danceable electronic pop song where the artist touches the subject of love as he mixes singing and a bit of rapping. Afterwards, in “AMOR X HOY” Lendezzz mixes autotune singing with sounds reminiscent of pop rock and pop punk thereby showing different influences. Next, “ANTES ENTENDIA” displays the musician’s melodic rapping abilities on a string-influenced trap/R&B blend that can be easily found on many heartbreak playlists. Finally, LOVER8OY closes with “Ya no :/” serves as another display of the artist’s melodic rap skills as he again explores the subject of heartbreak through a string-influenced beat. Overall, Lendezzz’s LOVER8OY is a short presentation letter of the artist’s various sounds as he explores the topic of love. Thus, showing a broader audience his out-of-the-box approach towards songwriting and production.
“Club Vertigo”: Francis Mxs Continues Displaying His Love and Mastery of House and Dance Music4/8/2022 After 2019, producer Francis Mxs, formerly known as Francis Mxsart, has been very active in the scene. With 2021’s Katarsis, a collaboration with singer and rapper Stz Poetic, the producer not only displayed his varied soundscapes but the seamless chemistry he shares with the artist. Now he starts 2022 with Club Vertigo, an EP where he explores many of the electronic sounds he loves so much. Club Vertigo starts with “tunnel vision”, a dreamy and danceable house song that introduces listeners to the type of party they’re gonna get themselves into. Afterwards, “footloose” serves as another fun and almost psychedelic tune for Francis Mxs’ repertoire. Then the title track takes over as the producer continues the audio language presented in previous songs while focusing a lot on atmosphere. Next, “the way i c u” finds the producer collaborating with Orteez in an extremely danceable record where both psychedelic, industrial, and house seamlessly blend. Finally, “upstairs” closes the project in fantastic fashion as Mxs sums up previous sounds and blends them with a bit of drum & bass and techno influences to finish up the ambience of the titular Club Vertigo. As a whole, Francis Mxs’ Club Vertigo is a display of love for house and other electronic soundscapes as the producer shows his continuous growth of said genres as well as his seamless ability to start a fun party while creating something that can easily be heard in movies or be adapted into visual form.
“Cacos son Otakus de Closet”: Cerpin Continues to Experiment & Play Around with Different Sounds4/7/2022 After starting his production career with some experimental singles here and there and an EP in 2020, abstract hip hop artist Cerpin continues to expand his soundscape with the EP Cacos son Otakus de Closet. Cacos son Otakus de Closet starts with “3am Drive”, a blend of futuristic synths and minimal boom bap-influenced production serving as the type of song one could probably find in a sci-fi movie intro or psychedelic film trip. Afterwards, “Chloe & Chlai (Reprise)”, an interesting blend of lo-fi hip hop and what seems like the type of dreamy sounds that could be found in old school RPGs like Pokémon and Earthbound or simulation games like Animal Crossing. Then Cerpin presents “CheesYal”, a mix of reggaetón, lo-fi hip hop, and ethereal sounds making it a fun exploration of the genre. Next the project delves into “Thanks for the solace, Miura”, a relaxing ambient tune with lo-fi hip hop elements that serves as a thank you letter to Berserk creator Kentaro Miura. Afterwards, Cacos son Otakus de Closet closes with “HIDAN”, a song that plays around with a variety of soundscapes as a powerful organ sample mesmerizes listeners and closes the EP. Overall, Cerpin’s Cacos son Otakus de Closet is a fun exploration of sounds that can be relaxing for the most part and even funny by reading some of the titles. It is yet another demonstration of the artist’s willingness to step out of the comfort zone while providing an interesting experience to his audience.
“Nice Audio”: Nébula Nice and The Audio Join Forces for a Short but Great Hip Hop Collaboration4/6/2022 After having pretty active careers of their own, rapper Nébula Nice and beatmaker/producer The Audio finally got together for Nice Audio, a project that finds both artists displaying many of the sounds they’re willing to explore while keeping their essence in the world of boom bap and lyricism. Nice Audio starts with a soulful & laid-back intro with a bit of a history lesson regarding hip hop origins to get listeners in the mood of what’s about to come. Afterwards, “Tiempo”, a track that reflects on its title’s subject matter through a chill instrumental and almost spoken word delivery of verses. Next, “Marvin Santiago” is a fantastic display of Nébula Nice’s lyrical abilities as he pays tribute to the legend which bears the song’s title while deeming himself as great & The Audio provides a horn-driven beat. Then “Triste Y Vacía” provides a story-driven reflection that is accompanied by some great boom bap production. The first part of the project closes with “Mi Poodle”, a fun reflection about man’s relationship with a pet. The second half of the project starts with “Mueve ese culo”, a tune that asks listeners to do exactly what the title asks through some southern hip hop/trap-influenced production. Subsequently, “Lenguaje Roto” is a return to boom bap sounds as Nébula Nice once again displays his lyrical skills alongside The Audio’s production and some scratches by Nuff Ced. Afterwards, “Kocaina en el microhonda” is a dark production as both musicians explore the grim world of drugs. Finally, the album closes with “Hanna Barbera”, another display of Nébula’s abilities as he raps over some abstract production by The Audio.
Overall, Nice Audio is a fantastic collaboration by two artists who are merely showing what they could do when they join forces. Hopefully, this is just the start of a potential continuous combined effort. As the Boricua independent art scene continues to experiment and evolve, more artists, writers and musicians continue to find ways to reinvent the scene. FAUNARIKÉN serves as one such project as the people involved mix poetry and spoken word delivery with elements from various forms of music to create an introspective album that celebrates Puerto Rico but also asks listeners to think about how we protect and take care of the island, its environments, people, and culture. FAUNARIKÉN starts with “GATOS DE SAN JUAN”, a jazzy and groovy track that displays the vocalist’s spoken word and rapping mix delivery in a reflection regarding San Juan and its people. Then “IGÜANA DE MONA”, a spoken word poem that reflects on how we must protect our island before bringing some horns and percussion into the mix to create some atmosphere that teleports listeners to Puerto Rico’s fauna. Afterwards, “BUEY DE JAYUYA” serves as a form of introspection regarding the exploitation of the Puerto Rican people while others get rich through corruption and other means. Next “PLUMAJES DEL YUNQUE” finds the artists playing around with many percussion and horn instruments as they ask listeners to contemplate about our natural resources and those who inhabit them. The first half of the album closes with “DORADO DEL COQUÍ”, a piece that finds the musicians reflecting on the many aspects that make us happy to be Boricuas without forgetting some elements that make it difficult to survive in the island before going into its jazzy instrumental section. The second part of the self-titled project kicks off with “ESPADA DE FAJARDO”, a homage to Fajardo through some jazz rap production. Subsequently, “GAVIOTAS DE CABO ROJO” takes listeners to Cabo Rojo through many visuals before delving into jazz sounds inspired by bebop. Next “MANATÍ DE MANGLAR” asks us to meditate on the damage we commit to the animal on the title, which serves just as a mere example of what we do to animals across the island through our use of machinery. Then “BURUQUENA DE LOÍZA” serves as another reflection of our fauna before delving into some funk and Latin influenced jazz sounds. Finally, the project closes with “REINITA DE PALMAR”, a jazz rap production that encapsulates many of the themes present across the album while making listeners bob their heads, dance, ponder or travel across their thoughts thanks to the funky production and psychedelic elements found throughout the track.
Overall, FAUNARIKÉN’s debut album is a fun and thought-provoking piece that will make people dance, but also ponder about who we are as a people and country, and how we take care of the home we cherish so much. |
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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