Hip Hop / Hip Hop Instrumental
RIYL: Phoniks, BADBADNOTGOOD, Madlib
Instrumental hip hop sounds from Koy. Based out of Oxford, United Kingdom, this short but sweet EP takes everything we love from Madlib’s Shades of Blue, and synthesizes it with his own style to make some relaxing, laid back tunes. Now, while the EP is only five tracks, each provides a unique perspective and texture.
The EP opener “it rained today” has some poignant moments, containing some swirling trumpet work, with a touch of Gorillaz percussive beats that really drive the track. In addition, the snare rolls and hi-hat claps lend well to the track, driving it along. Further, the bass tone is rich and deep. To follow, “smoov,” is shorter than anything else on the EP, however, the bass hits pack such a punch that the track expands to be unforgettable.
As the EP continues, Koy pivots to bring forth some large scale brass sections into his style with the track “delicious,” before pivoting again with the moody “voodoo.” On that track, Koy uses some industrial drum beats and snare rolls before pulling in a muted-trumpet to give a New Orleans jazz feel. In fact, “voodoo” may just be the best track on the EP in this writer’s opinion. Finally, Koy closes the EP with “whipped,” a track very reminiscent of Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass (if you don’t know about Whipped Cream & Other Delights, I highly recommend you check it out).
Now, the music contained in the EP is not the only thing to rave about. The cover art for the EP is bright, modern, and mind-bending, much like the music contained. For more information about the artist and their work, check out JackWilfredGrieve from their website or their Instagram.
Ultimately, there are some breathtaking jazz elements that would make the jazz stalwarts proud. Turn it up. Sit back. Relax. Dig it.
