Ian Matthew - "Ashtray"

Beyond creating good music, the most vital characteristic in any artist is - in my opinion - growth. And growth comes in many forms but, more often than not, the greatest growth comes from recognizing shortcomings; from falling and getting back up, learning from the highs and lows of the evolutionary process.

"Ashtray" is the first joint I've heard from Ian Matthew that makes me feel like dude is truly stepping into his own artistically. And I mean that with the utmost respect.

The latest drop from the CT-based artist features Ian taking a few big steps back from a stereotypical, bar-heavy hip-hop sound, instead embracing a smooth style that is highlighted by some passionate crooning. And, man, it works really well.

Backed by some light acoustic production, Ian is able to allow the emotion to emanate from his vocals, capturing the attention of the listener with his raw delivery. There are enough emcees filling records with catch-as-catch-can lyrical prowess, making it difficult to stand out from the pack based on wordplay alone. With "Ashtray", Ian Matthew puts the focus on his energy and his vocals, which results in a final product that is far more captivating than anything else I've heard from him.

While still staying true to his hip-hop roots, Ian lets a new side of his artistry take center stage. "Ashtray" sounds like he's leveling up artistically, seemingly thanks to a growing sense of self-awareness and musical exploration. As he continues to shed layers of gimmick and allow his true emotion and heart space to shine through, the music will become even more relatable - and, therefore, more enjoyable.

"Ashtray" is available now on all major streaming platforms. Preview the new track below.

Comments

Rudy - No Time

God willing, each and every person birthed into this world will grow up. Some of us may reach an old age, some of us may be called home earlier than others - but, in some form or fashion, we all will grow older. It's a funny thing, the way our society perceives age. In some cultures, the elders are held to the highest esteem - for they are the ones with the knowledge and experience to hold true wisdom. While many in our society praise youth and the physical beauty associated with being young, it is only through the experience of living life that one learns about the world, and in turn, has the capability to learn about their own being. And still, we tend to look down upon those who have been blessed to experience a long, full life. Perhaps it's because so many "old" people seem to live a life of regret, looking back on their youth with a mind full of "what ifs" and "should haves". While young individuals are rushing to reach maturity,

Watch Now: Aaron Cohen & Eklips in Paris (Video)

While in Paris - which appears to be one of his homes away from home at this point - Aaron Cohen bumped into Eklips outside a train station. With cameras rolling, the renowned beatboxer proceeded to drop Dipset's " Oh Boy " instrumental as Cohen does what he does best, lacing the France-based musician's rendition of the track with characteristically self-confident quotables. Check out the off the cuff collaboration below and be on the lookout for Cohen's upcoming RED NEW YORK project.

Xavier White - "Distance" [prod. Paul Couture] (Video)

As the weather continues to get colder and cuffing season takes full effect, Xavier White and Paul Couture come together with a little musical offering that's sure to warm up listeners with it's warm, comforting sonic vibes. "Distance" is a genre-blending record that finds a perfect balance of R&B and pop, thanks to Couture's vibrantly engrossing instrumentation and White's succoring, sultry crooning. The styles of both artists are coupled together beautifully as the song takes listeners on a teasingly seductive journey between playful lusters-turned-lovers. Directed by Alex Kouvatsos, the "Distance" music video is a captivating viewing experiencing, finding a way to be flashy while remaining simple at it's core. Backed by stimulating, striking lights, White serenades the subject matter of his lyrical content as she provocatively looks on, hearing his words yet paying him little to no direct attention. "Distance" is availa

dopeness is what i like the most

Search This Blog