I’m not going to lie to you, folks. It’s quite rare that I find indie hip-hop that makes me go “Hell yeah”. It has to have a special curve, whether in the samples, the flow, or the concept. I don’t claim myself as an expert on the genre, but I feel like I’ve heard enough hip-hop to know when something stands out.
To Those Unaware stood out. Rob, the mind behind the project, sent me his new EP Director’s Cut, with three tracks taking inspiration from – as the title suggests – the world of film. Each song references different titles, often featuring Rob rapping with himself to add a storytelling element to the music.
Rob started out his musical journey as vocalist and guitarist for different metal bands, and when pursuing a solo project experimented with electronic music before pivoting to hip-hop. The experience shows in Rob’s flow when he raps and his vocals when he sings. The compositions, even with the hardest beats, feel smooth and easy to jam with.
Of course, the film references give the tracks a humorous vibe, even when the rhymes get serious. “Director’s Cut (feat. Autocancel)” features Rob rapping with artist/rapper Autocancel on the second verse, with each claiming to have been present for the events of Event Horizon and The Thing. Autocancel also joins Rob on the second verse of “The One: Yulaw (feat. Autocancel)”, which summarizes the story of The One featuring Jet Li, in which he must kill other versions of himself in different universes to become stronger. Finally, “Look Away (feat. Elegize)” references The Matrix, with Rob partially rapping as the simulated reality’s architect and guest producer Elegize singing the backing vocals.
Anyone who loves film – like myself – will get a rise out of Rob’s references, but any hip-hop head will appreciate the cohesion between his beats and bars. I’m glad Rob sent this my way: Whenever someone – either an artist or a friend – sends me something that’s up my alley, it’s always a good time.
Take a listen to Director’s Cut and follow To Those Unaware on socials below:
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