As the second half of 2020 rolls in, we have to show appreciation for those who stuck with us thus far. It's been an amazing journey and to reach Episode 60 of The Slice is quite a feat in these uncertain times. It sure is another special episode and it's best we start on a strong note (pun intended) with emerging hip-pop artist Matt Hue's "Stronger." A moody R&B/rap track that explores self-growth and the never-ending journey of finding oneself. Hue blends his rap background with smooth melodic stylings as he flexes his vocal range and versatility.
Alternative music band RDGLDGRN (Red Gold Green) pays tribute to summer on the dreamy single "Surfin." The track is a nice mix of soul/pop and rap that is rife with bright instrumentation and head-nodding beats to match. Manchester, UK based soul/hip-hop group Roots Raddix make their debut on The Slice with "Off The Bench." Made up of Zz The Slept On, Woddy Green, and LayFullstop who individually have been a staple in the Manchester music scene, we get some good old feel-good vibes from them on this lead single from their self-titled EP.
LA-based artist JxSTILL helps us escape the madness with his single "NOT TOO FAR." Backed by a smooth atmospheric texture, he uses his music and some herbs to help him relax from his 9 to 5 and the drama of life. UK based Nigerian artiste MOJO's "Chiwawa" is a hypnotic afro-dancehall infused jam that is built for the clubs. MOJO's unassuming demeanor shines perfectly over Ronehi's pounding beat as he pours adulation on beautiful black women. The title is actually a term of endearment he coined for women who motivate him.
Producer Krizbeatz teams up with Nigerian pop heavyweight Teni for his lead single "African Time." As expected Temi brings to the fore what makes her special from earworm melodies to layered harmonies over Krizbeatz's EDM infused Afrocentric arrangements. The two sure bring something special as they fully embody the Pan-African theme of unity across the continent through music.
Faithful Freak explores love as it revolves through time on the soulful gem titled "L + L." The piano-laden track fuses melodic stylings, love-laden raps, and a solemn backdrop to tie things together. Tulsa-based recording artist Natalie Lauren's "Bra Off" is a soulful homage to all the black women who have to brave this crazy world while all they want to do is just be themselves. Lauren implores black women to leave the pressures and break out of the societal constructs placed around them and just have a good time even if it's for once.
Kid Travis really caught our ears with his "Friends With Quotation Marks," a smooth fusion of melodic pop/trap sensibilities. The emerging singer is not green to this and delivers a solid vocal performance that showcases his vocal range and eclectic style. Eastern Sunz is an Oregon hip hop duo consisting of Courage and TravisT and on their new track "Dollarticians" they link up with Westcoast legend Ras Kass. The song contains a timely political message and provides a fresh take on sociopolitical issues.
Mass Appeal signee CANTRELL is preparing for a new EP and he hits us with the bouncy "Birds Eye View" that serves as his second single. On this one, he is in full bravado mode as he goes full throttle over an uptempo trap banger. The final addition this week is the funky "Diamond Man" from Pink Flamingo Rhythm Revue, a musical project spearheaded by musician Eric "Doc" Mendelsohn who blends retro-styled funk, disco with modern sensibilities. The single dives into heartbreak and faltering love layered over lush textures and infectious grooves, a solid way to close out this week if you asked us.
Check out previous editions of The Slice here.
