Dolphin Talk and Stephen Niday have shared a progressive new album called 2 Action 2 Park. Working prolifically in Atlanta's underground scene in recent years, the producer duo have crafted a psychedelic, layered sound that is intriguing and addictive. Their latest album finds them harnessing the energies of underground hip-hop's future to create a colorful, kaleidoscopic record that flirts with cloud rap, plugg, and more sub-genres. Featuring internet rap sensations such as Big Baby Scumbag, Rx Nephew, and many more, this project is an epic journey through dazzling, infectious sonics.
Opening with the energizing, futuristic "no romancing", the producer's characteristic style is introduced with sparkling synths, chaotic drums, and addictive 808s. This explosive sound creates a colorful foundation for guest vocalist ATL Smook's dextrous verses, as he comes through with memorable melodies that add to the song's replay value. Transitioning smoothly into the addictive "arm & leg", distorted 808s and crisp drums lock in baritone vocals from POLO Perks <3 <3 <3, who tackles the maximalist beat with ease, delivering effortless, confident verses. Tracks like the cathartic "french fry" up the pace to adrenaline-pumping levels, adding more dynamics to the project with rapid synths and powerful, driving 808s. While "digiscale girl" feels like it travelled back in time from the future, featuring a spacey, bouncy instrumental and charismatic verses from underground sensation Rx Nephew. As the producers pair cloudy, ethereal sonics with pillowy, heavy 808s across the record, one cannot help but get drawn into the layered atmosphere, especially on tracks like the hazy "the jacksons" and the melodious "green light". 2 Action 2 Park closes out with some songs that bring in a slightly different sound, with the producers showcasing their overall versatility. "white friends" brings in pitched-up soul samples and smooth drums that evoke nostalgia, while "otherside/ nevada" slow things down and feature a nocturnal R&B influence.
An eclectic, forward-thinking project overall, 2 Action 2 Park draws from underground hip-hop's more progressive pockets to create a vibrant album full of surprising twists and turns. With otherworldly, hazy production and charismatic, addictive vocals from a wide-ranging set of guests, this LP makes for a fun listening experience to simply indulge in.
Connect with Dolphin Talk: Spotify | Instagram | Twitter
Connect with Stephen Niday: Spotify | Instagram | Twitter
