Vancouver rapper SonReal is back with a solid mixtape to pass the time until the release of his album later this year. Teaming up with mostly other Canadian artists, notably Shad and Rich Kidd, SonReal brings a variety of flows, moods and approaches. The mixtape is primarily downtempo, but SonReal works well within this soundscape, especially when he lets his emotions take lead, chameleonically responding to the often-melancholy production. For instance, on “Believe,” he oscillates between singing and rapping, depending on whether the piano or the drums are the leading element. A similar approach can be found “L.A.,” albeit with more singing.
While SonReal respectably holds down the center of the tape, the periphery is just as interesting, especially the production. The piano and the keyboard are common elements, but from song to song they’re used in dramatically different ways. The stark difference between “Shits Epic” and “Confession” is probably the best example. Anyone looking for a retreat from familiar synths and drum patterns will feel right at home. All in all, I guess there’s a reason Drake left his last album’s production to mostly Canadians. Take note and listen below.
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