Times
x Two have been somewhat of a staple in the New Zealand festival scene for a
while, but they have now stepped up and are showing NZ just how big they can be
with the release of their new EP Late Night Legacy. The EP cover art
is strong and regal, with Cader and Zee against a rich red background; somewhat
of a reflection of the objective of the EP itself, as there are some solid
tracks that are sure to blow up.
Way2Real kicks off the EP very well. No need for a buffer or slow build
up, it is straight into the music and introduces the details of who they are,
what they're up to and how far they’ve come. This track is straight up and
shows that they aren’t here to play around. The beat as it is luxuriously bass-heavy,
which makes Way2Real a catchy track that would absolutely go off
live. The video that was released for this track is essentially the duo performing the song in different scenes. It is a simple video but it shows how
energetic and consistent their performance can be in a variety of environment.
The following track Dirty Diana is a direct contrast to Way2Real.
Slower in pace, but still something that you can vibe along to. The track seems
to reference a working girl who is known around the town and a bit damaged; she
could change her lifestyle, but likes the money. It’s a good track and there
are definitely positive elements, but the disparity when compared
to Way2Real comes across as abnormal (The song does best when you
listen to it separately, on its own merits, rather than by its position on the
album). It does showcase the guys’ adaptability and flexibility in their style.
Hard In The Paint is the standout track on the EP. Robust and powerful,
the track is about working hard, and has a solid beat that really pushes the
emotion of the song. The track has a motivational quality to it, and just
like Way2Real it will go off whether it’s in the club or being
performed live.
Faithful is another track which showcases Times x Two's mixing skills.
Slower with a simple percussive beat, but flows perfectly. The vocals in this
track are subtle and smooth, and this makes the lyrics roll better. Clearly a
reflection of their own relationships. Where Is Your Heart has a strong
and simple beat, but does come across too strong in some sections. The track
flows on from Faithful well, also lyrically based around a
relationship, but it seems come from a different angle, focusing on someone
cheating on their significant other.
121 really kicks it back up again which is a bit of a nice way to end the
EP. This track is lighter and more upbeat with a stunning instrumental sound.
The video they released for this track reflects the same thing. The video has a
summer element to it, and it seems brighter and more laid back than the video
for Way2Real. What they are referring to in regards to the title 121is unclear, but it just sounds like they’re referring to the work they
have put in and that they are moving on up. On an unrelated note, ‘Habibi’
could be a contender for the most used word for Times x Two and it is clearly a
reference to their love for their fans and friends.
Late Night Legacy is a solid EP and has quite a mix on it considering it
is only 6-tracks. There are some very solid tracks and though it comes across
more like a taster of singles, especially with the layout of the tracks;
jumping back and forth between hard/heavy and slow/soft. It will definitely be
interesting to see what happens with these guys after the release of such a
strong and convincing EP.
Collectively known as Times x Two, Cader and Zee aren't just rappers. They're producers, singers, songwriters, and all-round emerging young businessmen. Based in Auckland, they create catchy-yet-thoughtful music informed by a diverse range of influences including Drake, Kanye West, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Outkast just to name a few.
Firm friends since primary school days, they're a tightly knit unit. Having met when they were just 8 years old, they bonded over a shared love for hip-hop and have been creating music together ever since. They formed the group TIMES x TWO after finishing high school when they realised that music was the right career path for them.
Over the last few years TIMES x TWO have built a buzz for themselves online through the release of numerous singles and music videos. As a result of their reputation and considered talents, they've wowed stages all across New Zealand, made three loved appearances at the Rhythm & Vines NYE festival, and have opened up for the likes of A$AP Rocky, Kid Ink, T-Pain, A$AP Ferg and G-Eazy.