And$um - Single Review: Tell No Lies
Earlier this month, Christchurch hip-hop artist And$um dropped Tell No Lies, the first single from his forthcoming debut album. Produced by scene-legend Dera Meelan, this is not your stock-standard approach to hip-hop/rap.
Kicking off with heavily filtered electronic blips and beeps, before finally introducing the hypnotic and rhythmically intricate beat and huge bass that will rattle the hell out of any crappy speaker system and the ribs/bowels out of anyone listening on a high-spec system, Tell No Lies is a high-energy burst (running at just under 2 minutes) of a clear artistic manifesto. And$um’s statement is "I’m here, pay attention", and from this release he is someone worthy of paying attention to.
With a lyrical flow that reminds me of the golden days of classic rap, such as 808 States’ MC Tunes, And$um effortlessly drops line after line of Kiwi-inspired (did I hear a shout out to Levin?) hip-hop. It is during the fast-flow sections that this track really shines, as the hook/chorus left me wanting… I don’t know what exactly – maybe a more dynamic rhythmic change, or maybe a vocal line that is a bit more gymnastic, or maybe some soaring backing vocals, I don’t know really, just something more.
Despite this one criticism, and it’s really not a big one, this is a very strong track and a good statement or introduction to And$um’s music. I do absolutely love the ‘mic-drop’ moment of the track’s ending. No messing around, no extended outro or anything, just a single lonely beat screaming out "we’re done."
About And$um
2019 has been a big step forward for the Christchurch artist. With two full length projects released racking up over 100,000 streams and being included in a variety of Spotify editorial playlists, including the official New Music Friday.
And$um describes his music as "authentic", and seeks to talk about his personal experiences in a relatable way. With a tendency for up-tempo head-bobbing songs, And$um wants to have fun with his music.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for And$um
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