I first discovered Hare Squead while listening to the Goldlink remix of “Herside Story” on “At What Cost?” where shortly after I decided to check out the Squead and see what they were about. Their debut EP, Supernormal, instantly caught my attention with “Got a Long Way to Go” which is reminiscent of a shining Pharrell record with a myriad of other Hip-Hop, Pop, and R&B influences. Describing themselves as “three black Irish kids making waves,” Hare Squead’s fun and energetic sound fit right in with the trend of young carefree eccentric Black acts in the Hip-Hop scene such as Chance the Rapper, Masego, Goldlink, D.R.A.M., and Aminé to name a few.
Goldlink
Goldlink, Brent Faiyaz, and Shy Glizzy – Crew
Okay, let me tell you guys I’ve probably played this song twenty times today. I’m very much addicted to the Goldlink, Brent Faiyaz, and Shy Glizzy song called “Crew.” Brent Faiyaz offers his vocals on the hook and even though that’s his only part in the song it’s a major part of the formula. Goldlink and Shy Glizzy offer up their eccentric flow and energy to the track, going back to back with a strong contrast that meshes surprisingly well.
Goldlink is as smooth and intricate as ever while still being tender in his approach, making his verse very intimate. Shy Glizzy dominates with his aggressive but flashy vocal presence, letting you know he doesn’t just “seem like the man,” he is the man. I’m not one to really care about radio hits often but this most certainly seems like a banger.
With spring right around the corner, this song can only go up and I imagine around March everyone will be abusing the play button as much as me. Check out the Soundcloud link or the Youtube link I placed below.
Return of Ole Virginny
Virginia has always had a major foot in the music since the 90’s, with Hip-Hop legends like Skillz, Lonnie B, D’angelo, Missy Elliot, Lady of Rage, Timbaland, Pharrell Williams, Chad Hugo, and The Clipse. More recently, Trey Songz, Chris Brown, and Lex Luger, who’ve undeniably changed their respective genres with their individual sound, have been grouped along with them. While when most people think of Hip-Hop or Rap, they don’t think of Virginia, the Old Dominion has played an extremely integral part in shaping the sound of the game as we know it. Local prospects are showing the same capacity for game changing moves with swift developing popularity and cosigns.
RapDreams 