“Banzaã Lab Compilation #7” – review by Apocolypse

So here’s another review from yours truly, Mr A aka The Rapture. Today I’m reviewing a compilation EP titled, “Banzaã Lab Compilation #7” coming strait from France. Banzaã Lab is the label that has put these producers and artists together on this EP.

The first track is, “Forgive Me” by Redrum(instrumental). From the start, the old school vocal sample used sets the tone for the track, as the beat kicks in you know for sure that this is some real soul Hip Hop. The vocals that are accompanied with some emotional strings just compel me to start freestyling, the beat is just a soulful masterpiece, pity its only 1:15min.

Track 2 is by Degiheugi – “Qu’attendez vous de moi”(instrumental). Damn just so much soul going on so far, I’m really diggin’ where this EP is headed. I feel like I just walked into a 60’s gentlemans bar wearing my top hat and pin stripe suit. Degiheugi really does a nice job of making all the elements working harmoniously in this composition, its 60’s swag with a bit of 90’s Hip Hop grit.

Then track 3 by Senbei – “Rain”(Instrumental) now this is just too DOPE! What starts out as a Mary Poppins(movie intro scene and just bursts into a happy go lucky, put a smile on ya face type tune, and then… oh wait… a banjo? and country style vocals? In contrast this crossover could seem far fetched, but it’s done flawlessly, from brown paper packages to the bayou, just like that. As the track progresses these various styles of music our brought together like it was priesthood Alchemy!

The previous track was the perfect precursor to this next one by Scarecrow – “Left Behind”. Oh Lord, now this is country with some soul! From the start, the chorus vocals draw you into the beat, if you’re not clapping along, you’re definitely tapping your feet. The bass line is just the cherry on the top to add some funk. Unfortunately I don’t understand French, but DAMN these guy’s flow is just immaculate. Their delivery is on point and work so well together, they understand each other like they understand the beat and it comes through in the song. Their rhymes carry the beat at their own pace and the timing between the two is powerful. It’s one hell of a track, big-ups!

Track 5 is Dj Low Cut – “2 Chains” (Feat. Akin Yai) is that real old skool Hip Hop. Don’t let the pantomime melody fool you, this track has some real shit to say. The 90’s snare is always a sure way to make the listener nod their heads. I like the benevolent beat with the serious undertone, the contrast works well together and gets the point across.

Track 6 is by Clem Beat’z and titled, “Fusoku”(Intrumental). Appropriately titled because as soon as the vocal sample kicks in, you feel the Japanese influence. I picture myself riding along the mountainside in Tokyo with cherry blossom flowers dropping all around me as I make my way to the top. Cool laid back beat, the jazzy brass and smooth keys create the perfect introduction. The bit crunched synth and back round jingles that vary from 8-bit gaming samples to symbol crashes just add that extra bit the flavor.

Ok, now I’m feeling this joint, this track is titled “Serenade”(Instrumental) by Tismé and is the second last track of the EP. It’s one of those abstract beats with spacey samples and dreamy vocals in the background. It’s not trying to impose any thought or specific feeling, it just puts your mind in void that draws what ever emotion or topic that’s applicable to you at the moment. It serenades the mind, body and soul.

Last track already? That sucks, I was really getting into the EP. Track 8 is by Bonnie Li – “Mallory”. Bonnie Li has beautiful voice, the song itself is very thought provoking, you feel the struggle and journey of Mallory. I like the way the song was composed, and the lyrics just emphasize the mood.

Over all it was a dope EP to listen to, it isn’t just traditional Hip Hop, it extends its reach through multiple genres and displays true talent. I’d have to say Scarecrow – “Left Behind” is my favorite track, the beat, the flows with “Rain” being a close 2nd. I give this EP 2.5/5 punchlines and would recommend it to anyone looking for some good music to sit back and listen to, by the way did I mention it’s FREE to download! Shout out to the producers, artists and Banzaã Lab for making good music and a great compilation.

 

Listen to my favourite track and EP here:

[bandcamp width=100% height=120 album=1797344118 size=large bgcol=ffffff linkcol=0687f5 tracklist=false artwork=small track=4018230793]

2.5

Mr. A


 

For more information check out:

Banzaã Lab : Website Facebook Twitter Bandcamp

Redrum :  Twitter Bandcamp

Degiheugi : Website Facebook Twitter Bandcamp

Senbei : Website Facebook Twitter Bandcamp

Scarecrow : Website Facebook Bandcamp

Dj Low Cut :  Facebook Twitter Bandcamp

Clem Beat’z : Facebook Twitter Bandcamp

Tismé : Website Facebook Twitter Bandcamp

Bonnie Li : Website Facebook Twitter Bandcamp

 

Apocolypse : Facebook Twitter Instagram

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