Written by : Stacy James (@stacyjamesofficial)
Every genre goes through its phases and possesses vast variety at any given point, but none
more so than rap. Each fact gains more weight when you take into consideration that rap is one of the youngest genres. It has artists touching on every topic with just as many approaches to delivering their message. It’s ever changing but through all this evolution there has been one constant:lyricists flexing their ability over boom bap beats infused with samples and classic instruments.
It may not be the only method anymore but if anything that should add to its merit when it’s done right, and boy does mynameisntjack do boom bap right. You can hear elements from all the greats but especially the modernized interpretations like Tyler the Creator, Mac Miller, Earl Sweatshirt, and Isaiah Rashad. But not once through his entire catalog does it feel like he’s doing an impersonation or trying to be a clever/technical rapper, he just is.
Exuberating confidence with every breath mynameisntjack owns whatever beat he finds himself on, being unafraid to open up or experiment with flows and delivery. Whatever the approach he maintains control, sitting in the driver seat drifting through a demolition derby with his listeners safely riding shotgun. Carefully selecting each beat that similarities aside allows a new sandbox for him to play in with every song.
Track 1 “Numbersnshit” opens with beautiful birds chirping before the beat shoots them out of the sky and mynameisntjack comes in with ruthless aggression as he both confronts himself and pats himself on the back at the same time. Feature Tommy Richman adds a great bit of levity both in vocal and content style.
Track 2 “Outtheway” has a much softer approach with the chorus but the verses are a pure
highlight real full of flow switches and witty bars. The song manages to be mellow and hype at the same time while feeling organic all throughout.
Track 3 “Leak” is the longest of the project coming in at 4:21 but never feels like it overstays its welcome. Mynameisntjack once again flexes his ability to both face his personal demons and well, flex. About halfway through the beat breaks down and switches up, bringing in violins and more instruments creating a beautiful juxtaposition to his harsh but seamless flow. A truly poetic outing.
Track 4 “Walk Around” keeps the core theme but lightens the mood with an upbeat tempo and ever so pleasing samples. Feature Kwame shares a similar approach to mynameisntjack but adds the perfect amount of spice to the project as the two shine together and on their own. The song also boasts an infectious hook.
Track 5 “Transport” has a more stripped down beat but even more impressive bars and flows. This one truly feels like a therapy session. You can’t help but sit back and listen, truly impressive considering the simplistic beat.
Track 6 “Scars” is the perfect outro as mynameisntjack now confronts himself, the world, and his place in it. Touching on every aspect of love but especially one specifically. The beat features an infectious piano and drum combo that when combined with the vocals creates a hypnotic experience.
Through every track mynameisntjack shines a lot all on himself, his abilities, and real world
issues. Giving the listener no choice but to think about where they are in life and how they got there, all in a truly inspirational and commendable way. His technical ability combined with the jazz adjacent beats delivers a therapeutic experience for the listener. Checkout the “Bookmark” EP out everywhere now.
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