Word Around the Sound is… Larry Roze and Lexscope dropped a project together called RAGE & rozes. These real-life brothers previously released the EP Xander together back in 2017 and are now following that up with this release.
Both Lex and Larry have spent their lives making shit happen out of thin air. Their dedication and determination to do dope shit comes through in every project that they work on. On Bandcamp, Roze said, “This is a surprise release. We are 100% independent. We fund all our videos, we secure all of our own studio time, and we will continue to use our own resources to share our art with the world.”
When talking about RAGE & rozes, Lex said, “This project is amazing to me. Be feelin like it’s just me & my lil bruv against the world for real… I love how R&R is 4 records with both of us on it, and 2 solo records. Makes none of the songs sonically the same yet it all flow together like a smoothie.”
The album has a duality to it that you would expect from the title. At times it’s sweet and romantic with flows that fall like rose petals on the beat. Tracks like “Apocalypse” and “Heavy” tap into that vibe. Meanwhile, tracks like “Manic” and “NEON” exemplify the rage that these guys brought to the project. The common threads throughout the project are the catchy hooks and choruses alongside the quality mixdown by Poison Jams. Overall, this is an easy addition to my collection!
Larry Roze and Lexscope RAGE & rozes
Khris P What’s the Emergency?
Way too hot, way too hot, yeah, Khris P is on fire with the release of his latest project, What’s the Emergency?! It’s like stepping into a refined chaos; there can be a lot going on but at the same time there’s a clear path to go down that protects you from getting burned. There’s a grit to his sound, but a fluid bounce that always pushes along his clever lyrics. My favorite tracks off the jump are “EZ2ME” and “ADIDAS,” although I do really enjoy the journey from top to bottom.
Crissy P Silent Stepping Stones
It’s wild to me how different the vibe is between Crissy P‘s live show and his recorded music. When I saw him perform recently at Capitol Hill Block Party, the energy was high, and the stage presence was bold. When you sit down and listen to his recently released album, Silent Stepping Stones, it’s the complete opposite. Although his presence is still bold, his music is calm and tranquil and best served with a joint on the side. Throughout the project, he proves why his name has been buzzing around the city as of late as he takes good raps and makes them great.
J’von “Fortress”
“His daughter’s car seat in his new whip is his biggest flex.” This is wholesome as fuck dad-rap right here, and J’von does it well. Ever since I first heard him spit, I’ve always thought he was one of the best lyricists out of the Northwest. I’m still trying to pick up on some of the bars that he dropped back on his album Dream Surfer and now here he is getting ready to drop the follow up Dream Surfer 2. As a teaser to the upcoming album, J’von gives us his latest single, “Fortress” which you can only stream on his website, or you can watch the music video on YouTube.
LIVt “Who?!” ft Dave Shanaé and Jaywop
Keepin it 1,000, my brother, this song is a fucking jam. Let the groove take you away on the latest track from LIVt titled “Who?!” featuring Dave Shanaé and Jaywop, this track is stacked with talent who work together in perfect harmony. The composition and overall mix are top-notch and leaves you wondering why these artists aren’t on the Top 40 charts right now. This is a perfect “meet me on the dance floor” song for this summer.
Greg Cypher “Percolator”
Let’s give it up one time for the “Percolator,” the latest release from Greg Cypher as he gears up to drop his upcoming project, Summer Sampler. This track is hot like the asphalt in the summer sun. It sticks around in my ears like my sweaty skin on the vinyl seats at the bar. Recently, Greg unfortunately was in a life-changing accident and will be out of work for an indefinite amount of time. Show your support by streaming his music and spread the word that there’s a gofundme fundraiser to help keep Greg on his feet and on top of his bills while he recovers.
New Track City “Million Dollar N*****”
I have been following New Track City for a long time now. The past year or so, they’ve been a little quieter than normal but it’s obvious with their new track “Million Dollar N*****” that they’ve still been working while creeping in the shadows. What I love about these guys is that they keep it real and honest with their lyrics and this track is a million dollars’ worth of honesty.
Ava Dasar “Pink Candy”
Ava Dasar has the kind of vocals that makes time stop around you. She’s been casually releasing music as of late and casually picking up sync placements with the few singles that she has. Her latest release, “Pink Candy” was featured in season one, episode four of the new Netflix hit Survival of the Thickest. “Pink Candy” is a sweet little lullaby that encompasses all the feelings of love in its purest form.
Upcoming Events Around the Sound
Wednesday Nights: Yohiness is cooking up a modern R&B experience with a new weekly party at Time Warp in Capitol Hill. Step back in time as you play retro arcade games while you groove to some of the hottest rhythm and blues. Sing your heart out with some karaoke fun. Or just bring yourself and some friends to simply hang out and have a good time. Whatever your jam is, you can head over to Time Warp every Wednesday for Playin Games, just don’t forget the quarters!
Thursday, August 3, 10, and 17: KEXP presents Concerts at the Mural for the first time in four years! The tradition sees a variety of musicians perform in the Mural Amphitheater stage at the Seattle Center for free, all ages concerts. This year, you can check out performances from Baby Rose with Zari Alexandria and Supreme La Rock, Jessy Lanza with Daisies and DJ Troy Nelson, as well as Deep Sea Diver with La Fonda and DJ Kennady Quille. Seats are on a first-come basis so head down early (opens at 4:30pm) and claim your spot!
