Atlanta-based Orlando, FL-born rapper Moe and AyoTheProducer first popped on our radar with their anthemic single “MAGIC” a few months ago, and now they return with the full-length collaborative project MOELANDO. The 10-track project showcases the duo’s chemistry, with Moe’s distinct voice and expressive raps over AyoTheProducer’s bass-heavy anthemic beats inspired by the rich Orlando, Florida, club culture.
The project opens with the lead single “Magic” which is bolstered by Moe’s melodic-tinged cadence and somewhat nonchalant flow where he displays his distinct sound and bravado raps that tap into the spirit of his hometown's music scene. Lines like "Hands on rims till the time is up/Feeling like Martin, you ain't my bruh-man, it's your time to stop/Fuck it then if I'm able, I get it done by myself/Fuck that label, I was too Epic to be put on the shelf" shows his irreverent energy and can-do spirit as well. The production on “Add It Up” has a brooding and ominous feel with lush strings, Crunchy drums, and a solemn piano chord that comes into play sparingly.
Here, Moe sounds confident, relaxed, and in his element. Lines like “More money over everything we well established/ It really be that nigga, I always imagined/ then I got the hustle, made it fucking happen/ Somebody call Ayo man, we got one/ We the realest nigga in the spot uh” underscore Moe’s go-getter mindset as he builds a new chapter for himself. “Gangster Love Letter” is a heartfelt open letter to Moe’s love interest. The beat has a lush guitar lick, and an ethereal vocal sample layered over thick 808 drums and fits Moe’s commanding flow and heartfelt lyrics about his feelings. The go-getter anthem “Goin In” details Moe’s exquisite player lifestyle that puts him on a higher level while the final track “14 TO 285” follows Moe’s intercontinental travels and successes that gave him a way to rise above his humble beginnings.
Tracks like“TAKE RISKS,” “UDON” and “THIS THAT SHIT ”show a different side to Moe’s artistry and style.“TAKE RISKS,” is about his lifestyle, the risks he took to win will not be jeopardized for frivolities. “UDON” is another lowkey jam that captures Moe’s bravado style in its rawest form. Here, he boasts about his conquests and the craziness that comes with what he can offer them. “THIS THAT SHIT” is a hard-hitting street banger that contains not-so-thinly veiled threats to the detractors while “WHEN I COME AROUND” is an exotic flute-driven jam that is predicated on Moe’s status as a boss. He doesn’t take shorts or losses and is always standing on business. The project also includes the street banger “Large Amount” which serves as the anthem for the hustlers.
Moe shares about their decision to move forward with the project. “People lose confidence waiting for perfect timing, but we knew it was time, and the album came together in just a few weeks.”
MOELANDO is now available on all streaming platforms here.