Spell Jordan has aimed specifically at a certain sub-genre with this release and the result is something that effectively captures the rhythm and vibe required to draw the attention of modern day hip-hop fans. The opening track from the project sets the mood accordingly, the music has been recording, mixed, and mastered to a high standard, so the finish is crisp and easy to listen to at high volumes. On top of this, you clearly need a particularly confident performance style and flow – to offer up that fresh yet capable sense of character and style – the introduction alone showcases all of this really well.
If you listen further into the project the style of performance varies depending on the underlying sentiment or mood of the song. The switch from the first to the second track alone highlights two fairly different scenes – the musical thread remains, but the high energy of the opener falls away to reveal something much more mellow and almost whispered on occasion. To put out albums or mix-tapes is the way to set in stone your commitment and passion for what you do, it also lays bare whether or not you are to be a one hit wonder and simply want to dip your toes in the genre because everyone’s doing it. There’s no feeling of this being the case with this release.
The thread remains, as stated, and that keeps things relevant to the audience in question, but there’s also a notable level of creativity and variation as things progress. The leading vocal changes direction a number of times and in every case the bar is set high and met in a seemingly effortless and believable way. It’s a strong collection and a great way to get today’s hip-hop fans interested and on board for the long term.
By Rebecca Cullen
Rebecca is a Musician and writer from Manchester, UK, with an MA in Song Writing
