Johnson: his beats express a smooth variation between mellow laid back kicks that amplify the impact of his music, and a blend of old soul that forces a step back in time accompanied by harmonies that elevate one to a point of poignant imagination. There is also a plain merit in his music that places recognition to musical influences such as jazz, folk, dub and the blues acknowledging their role as predecessors of hip hop in addition hinting how he too is drawn to them as a listener and follower. A tender and demonstrative aura resonates in songs like I need your loving, the wind, and send them smiley faces of which draws the listener into a parallel that reflects how music is also a language with the function to speak very clearly even in the absence of words, perhaps more articulately in some instances. The samples chosen (of greats such as Louis Armstrong and Gladys Knight) give a feel of a gentle human element “spoken” for by his arrangement of subtle bongos drumming in the background, somewhat shallow base, vivid drum kick, and sound effects which mirrors a playful and happy soul. the music has a touch of idealist innocence painting a beautiful, bright and romantic perspective on the world as can only be elaborated through musical art. Another innovative touch is that of the unexpected intermissions which are well-placed within some beats. They serve as an effective pause which help the listener get back into focus; and flow with the melodies.
Cymtom; first thing that resonates about the man is his strong inclination to boombap, a strong head bopping sound that jerks one to either jump up and dance or bust a freestyle. Each track is like a soundtrack to a story being told, with everything from plot, build up, a climax and even a painted picture. Strong unexpected altercations in his arrangement, fused with traces of samples discretely placed so that he is true to originality, affirm the man’s respect to solid ideas and sternness, a characteristic which exposes that he has had a strong and rich history with hip hop in its evolution. Also, how relevant hip hop is to his own evolution. Though somewhat mellow the fast pace in his beats also suggest an open and positive perspective to life, carrying in them that attitude-filled, take it or leave it, stand close and give-a-careful-listen demeanour that is embodiment of true boombap. A trace of other musical influences both young and old also resonates through his music, the adlibs squeezed in are obviously more of a statement than mere additions to give a song more colour. an action to show evidence of the man’s love for hip hop as a tool to conscientise and emancipate minds and his bit in contributing to the cause. Though enshrined in humble melodies and distinct kicks, hints of a gentle aggression also come across, yet again an attribute symbolic of boombap hip hop so that impact is felt and translates to movement.
The two producers are clearly distinct from each other in their histories and influence however, there is a sharp undertone that brings them together as one in the way they compliment and contrast one another. As the album title suggests they are two opposites, but opposites that flow into each other and created such a distinguished blend and variation that you cannot help but find yourself listening to the album all day, lost in the symphonies and mood the two producers managed to create in their synergy. An all round feel-good album, put together in the spirit of celebration, sharing, appreciation for mutuality and doing something different (innovation), inspiration, and comfort... or should I say nourishment for the soul. Click here to download the tape.
- Feline Spirit
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