The world of underground rap is a fascinating one, filled with unique artists and their distinct styles. One such artist, RealYungPhil, has been making waves with his unique blend of rap and a laid-back, almost meditative approach. His latest record, 'until something changes', showcases a more collaborative and intentional sound, pushing the boundaries of what underground rap can be.
Phil's previous work, 'Victory Music', had a celestial glow but felt somewhat one-note, with Phil's thoughts and flexes adding a layer to a beatpack-like production. However, 'until something changes' is a different story. It's a collaborative effort, with Phil stepping into the Swedish producers' world of mystic ambience, and they, in turn, upping the tempos to meet his steely East Coast bravado. This real-life chemistry is evident on the track 'activated', produced by Woesum, Stacey, and Eurohead, which starts with celebratory church bells and crashing 808s, creating a unique blend of pop and drill.
One of the standout tracks is 'Remote', which initially seemed overly glacial, but Gud's sporadic bursts of ticking hi-hats add a much-needed bounce. This slight rhythm change highlights Phil's optimistic breakthrough. The track 'Sold Out Shows' showcases Phil's ability to shine on a more serene beat, with gentle drum rumbles and short, recognizable messages that don't require deep introspection.
What makes 'until something changes' truly special is the collaboration between Phil and the Swedish producers. It's a testament to the power of real-life chemistry in music, where artists feed off each other's energy and create something truly unique. This record is a must-listen for fans of underground rap, offering a fresh and captivating take on the genre.