Real Recognize Rio has dropped off a new album, titled Don't Count Me Out. Hailing from East Atlanta, the artist is a recent signee of 21 Savage's imprint Slaughter Gang Entertainment, and has built a wide-ranging discography of tracks that blend classic Atlanta hip-hop influences with his own refreshing, hard-hitting twist. With collaborations under his belt with artists such as Young Nudy, Lil Harold, Toossii, MoneyMan, Pee Wee Longway, and others, Rio continues to blaze forth with his soulful, gritty sound. His latest album Don't Count Me Out, is a booming, commanding set of songs that blend smoothness with intensity to give it its own character.
Don't Count Me Out conjures an atmosphere of triumph with its combination of soulful sampling and punchy, immense drums and 808s. The textural, weaving samples and massive rhythm section of opener "Hard To Lie" make for an imposing opener, furthered by Rio's charismatic, confident delivery and sleek flows. Rio also employs heavy, grimy soundscapes such as the rumbling key riffs and trunk-shaking 808s of "Fresh As Hell", which features exciting, dynamic rhyme patterns from Rio that keep the listener on their toes. "Knockin It Out" contains a welcome dose of nostalgia with its old school undertones, paired with a refreshing twist as he flows effortlessly atop unrestrained bass and clasping percussion. "Die Rich" employs an eery orchestral backdrop that adds further variety, while Rio gives one of his most powerful vocal performances on the record alongside a potent verse from Baby Money.
The latest from Atlanta's Real Recognize Rio, Don't Count Me Out presents a cacophony of soulful sounds, muscular grooves, and sharp flows for a record that leaves few dull moments.
