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Mos Def & Busta Rhymes Kicked It On “Do It Now”

A classic will endure, no matter how many years come to pass since its initial release. For Mos Def, who delivered Black On Both Sides twenty-one years ago to this day, a fair percentage of his legacy has been built around the album. Seen by many as one of the greatest debuts of all time, Mos Def’s emcee mentality remains as deadly now as it was back in 1999. So much so that hearing him trade bars with Busta Rhymes over some delightfully vintage production is enough to crack a smile on any purist’s face.

Though many have come to associate Mos with his conscious themes and thought-provoking concepts, sometimes it’s enough to hear him putting in work on a purely technical basis. On “Do It Now,” Mos made sure to set it off with no shortage of charisma, setting off a ridiculous back-and-forth scheme with the expectedly energetic Bus-A-Bus. “Heard the rhyme, head high, what ya starin at ya sneakers, you shy now, got a lot of things on your mind now,” spits Yasiin, in his opening verse. “You don’t feel fly now, you hunting the exit sign down / Fuck what you heard, cause I snatch the grapevine down.”

Anyone who enjoys lyrically-driven duets will find much to cherish here, so be sure to show some love to Black On Both Sides as it celebrates its twenty-first birthday.

QUOTABLE LYRICS

From east, west, north, and south, I got joints for all of those
Heavy aquatic water flows keepin them on they toes
Tell them thugs that wanna be CEO’s to be derobed
Fore I wear your little dumb ass out like Easter clothes

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Tiri The Seed Breathes New Life into Nostalgia with ‘Back In The Room’

Tiri The Seed expertly blends vintage musical elements with contemporary production techniques in “Back In The Room.” This track pulsates with a retro vibe, yet maintains a fresh sonic identity, largely due to Tiri’s charismatic vocal delivery, which infuses the mix with an effortlessly cool energy. Thematically, “Back In The Room” explores the nuances of reconnection, encapsulating that poignant emotional experience of revisiting spaces or moments previously perceived as lost.

Musically, Tiri’s signature vocal timbre overlays an infectious rhythmic foundation paired with lush, sweeping synths, evoking the ambiance of a late-night drive down memory lane. The lyrics are crafted to provoke introspection while the production invites physical movement, striking a harmonious balance between nostalgia and celebration. Tiri’s warm delivery creates an intimate listening experience, drawing the audience into a shared reminiscence of formative moments. The track encapsulates a dichotomy of nostalgia and optimism, making it essential for those who appreciate a classic aesthetic imbued with modern sensibilities.

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Janet Noh Takes a Deep Dive into Vulnerability with ‘One Breath’

Janet Noh’s latest single, “One Breath,” presents a poignant exploration of emotional depth through a minimalistic sonic arrangement. The track harnesses dynamics and silence, allowing Noh’s nuanced vocal delivery to take center stage.

The single “One Breath” engages in introspective self-examination, showcasing Noh’s adeptness at lyrical composition that balances vulnerability with strength. Her phrasing and tonal choices exhibit a masterclass in expressive restraint, allowing listeners to engage with the subtle emotional undercurrents present in the music.

The listening experience is intimate, akin to sharing a personal revelation, which enhances the profound quality of the piece. As the final notes fade, the lingering resonance of the song invites reflection, echoing themes of hope and resilience that are striking in their simplicity. Janet Noh successfully cultivates an atmosphere of comfort and contemplation, which speaks to the listener on a personal and universal level.