Andre Fortin

Frozen Mugs stands as a tour de force in the hip-hop universe, marking the explosive encounter between Maylay Sparks, Swedish producer K Sluggah, and Clever 1 from Da Buze Bruvaz. The album is distinguished by its cinematic and soulful production, offering a soundscape that invites immersion. K Sluggah orchestrates both rich and nuanced beats, setting the perfect canvas for the sharp lyricism and ruthless delivery of the MCs.The chemistry between Maylay Sparks and Clever 1 is undeniable, forging through their exchanges a dynamic that recalls the great collaborations of hip-hop. Their lyrics, tinted with street narratives, reflections on nightlife, and a certain romantic nihilism, evoke a raw realism that resonates deeply within the soul of the listener. The writing quality is exceptional, skillfully blending complex motifs and vivid imagery, making each track both captivating and thoughtful.The album takes an additional dimension with the posthumous presence of Malik B, whose verses recorded shortly before his death add a palpable layer of emotion to the whole. The loss of this lyrical giant infuses Frozen Mugs with a memorial spirit, honoring his memory and legacy within hip-hop culture.Joe The Butcher Nicolo, behind the console, ensures that each track is polished to perfection, guaranteeing that the album's sound vision is rendered with exceptional clarity and precision. His work contributes to solidifying Frozen Mugs as an outstanding auditory work, where every element, from production to delivery, is executed with undeniable mastery.Through its dark themes, life stories, and captivating production, the album establishes an intimate connection with the listener, guiding them through a sonic journey that is both personal and universal.Frozen Mugs presents itself as an instant classic through its musical excellence. It's a poignant testimony to Malik B's indelible impact on the hip-hop world and a powerful reminder of music's ability to unite, inspire, and commemorate.

Golden Crab, the latest collaboration from Toronto's rap triad Swamp Thing (comprising Timbuktu, Chokeules, and Savilion), merges seamlessly with maestro Danny Miles to craft an extraordinary opus. Not only does this album mark their eleventh consecutive year of Halloween releases, but it also signifies a masterful collaboration that transcends musical boundaries. Forged within the creative confines of Timbuktu's FUN studio in Toronto and Danny's Pillow Fort in Hamilton, Golden Crab emerges from the convergence of two distinct sonic worlds. The alchemy operates within these spaces, with every nook of these studios becoming a sanctuary where musical magic takes shape. Timbuktu, rooted in Toronto, and Danny Miles, orchestrating from Hamilton, blend their talents, with Danny producing the majority of the beats, imprinting each note of this opus. The first single, 'Water into Wine,' serves as an invitation to an imminent auditory spectacle. DJ iRATE's clever cuts, vocal collaborations from Moka Only, Ghettosocks, and others, add layers to the richness of the darkness projected by Swamp Thing and Danny Miles. Each track of Golden Crab unfolds like a cryptic tale, captivating listeners in a sonic spell, revealing new details with each listen. Chokeules captures the essence of their creative process, stating that the music is inspired by their love for communal creation, a constant endeavor to impress each other. Timbuktu reinforces this sentiment, emphasizing their commitment to creating music that resonates with their collective vision. Speaking of the members, each voice and every beat in Golden Crab represents a piece of this sonic tapestry. The locations, FUN and Pillow Fort studios, are not merely physical spaces but crucibles where musical alchemy operates. Finally, "Gorgo," the second single, resonates as a resounding confirmation of the collaborative mastery that defines the entire album. With an exceptional collaboration from Ghettosocks, this track illustrates the captivating fusion of BoomBap and alternative Hip-Hop that characterizes Golden Crab. The album is not just a compilation of tracks but a ritual, a dark and rich Halloween celebration engraved in musical notes. Swamp Thing and Danny Miles guide listeners into a sonic realm where beats reign supreme, and lyrical alchemy weaves an enchanting narrative. Each listen to Golden Crab reveals a rediscovery, underscoring the depth and continued relevance of this captivating opus. Furthermore, Golden Crab has established itself as the cornerstone of my musical year. This magnum opus prompted my hesitations until the last second of 2023, ultimately asserting its place at the top of my list of the best albums of the year. Since its release, it sets the rhythm for my days with undeniable consistency, unfolding on my speakers approximately three times a day. With each listen, new details emerge, emphasizing its undisputed status as a standout album. This fusion of emotions, captivating beats, and skillful lyricism has created an immersive experience, making Golden Crab more than just an album but a true musical pillar in my daily life.