Toronto-based artist Fredericks Reginald's EP 811. makes for a cathartic offering, with its relentless dark yet self aware soundscapes and poetic, emotive lyricism. Reginald was shown the ropes and passed the mic at an early age, he began rapping after his godfather exposed him to classic hip-hop through his DJing, while his cousins- young MCees from Queens,- transmuted in him the flow and essence of New York. When he finally stepped into his first recording session at the age of 14, Fredericks recognized both the power and therapeutic release that writing and rapping held. His music, influenced by the gritty aesthetics of NY hip-hop as well as Toronto culture and slang, is an eclectic, boundary pushing take on underground rap, as he keeps things raw and heartfelt across his growing discography.
811. is a thought-provoking release that remains pensive throughout, as Reginald weaves together richly detailed lyricism delivered in an engaging cadence. Atop creeping, rugged instrumentation, he takes on an existentialist tone as he delves into his personal life and mindstate, never afraid to get personal with the listener. Opener "KASEY."'s poignantly claustrophobic sonics and reflective songwriting give it a dense emotional resonance, whereas "HOTEL 69." is more atmospheric and expansive, with airy, psychedelic samples that are mind-bending. "ASYLUM" closes the project with tantalizing, kaleidoscopic production and intense, candid lyricism that make the track a gripping listen.
811. is an eclectic, boundary pushing project overall, and it employs the Toronto rapper's skills as a lyricist as well as keen ear for surreal production for a mind-expanding listen.
