TRUTH SERUM

posted in: Artist Features • Urban

The art of rap is a lot like the science of perfume. There’s the top note ” an initial punch to your senses that gives you your first impression. Then there’s the base note ” the depth of character that is perceived after the top note fades away. If your base note isn’t quality, then whatever you’re laying on top is pointless.

Melo Tha Truth has mixed up a winning concoction for hip-hop fans. He uses the usual top notes to grab your attention ” name-checking his clothes, his sexual prowess and his lyrical swerve. But underneath all that swagger you get real chops. Akademiks, a shout-out to Melo’s favorite clothing line, is a stripped-back track built on the rapper’s dexterous flow over a looping Middle Eastern line. I’m That Shit gets more aggressive, showcasing an epic beat that would do Kanye and Jay-Z proud. Melo’s hunger to make it past hip-hop’s velvet ropes is acute. I’m ahead of my time like daylight savings / I belong in the sky, I’m a star in the making.

Let’s hope the industry picks up on his scent.