By Dominic Triolo
What’s up gang.
As 2017 comes to a close, I figured I would put together a list of my favorite stuff from my show Alt Rap this last semester. Please note these songs weren’t all released in 2017, they’re just my favorites from each set list, presented from my first set to my most recent. With all that out of the way, here we go.
Set #1: Black Snake Moan, AmeerVann
I only knew AmeerVann from his work in BROCKHAMPTON, but I was pleasantly surprised by his solo work. Most of his work skews less heavy than “Black Snake Moan,” but the Mick Jenkins-esque vocals and Father-esque sound keep me coming back.
Set #2: Sunflower Seeds, Bryce Vine
Truthfully, I don’t love the rest of Bryce Vine’s music, but man does this song get me. I found it the summer before my freshman year during a road trip and I’ve had it in rotation ever since. Bryce’s vocals are easy on the ears, and his liberal use of internal and slant rhyme portray his skill as a lyricist. Great to play driving home at the end of the night, definitely give it a shot.
Set #3: Vamp, Father (Feat. Tommy Genesis)
I’ve been a big Father fan since “Look At Wrist,” which “Vamp” definitely reminds me of. The drone-y chorus, thumping bass line and simplicity of the beat pair really well with Father’s vibe, which is probably why most of his beats are pretty similar. If you’re looking for something trappy and slow, Father is the artist for you.
Set #4: The Recipe, Kendrick Lamar
This set was all Kendrick Lamar, in honor of good kid, m.A.Ad city, which had just turned 5 years old. Picking one Kendrick song is nearly impossible for me, especially since his work becomes so much better when listened to in context. There isn’t a Kendrick song I don’t like, but the vibe of “The Recipe” is really attractive to me. The beat is really unique compared to everything else on GKMC, and it’s like being part of a club when you find someone else who digs this bonus track.
Set #5: Jazz, Mick Jenkins
Mick Jenkins has an oddly divisive sound in my experience, people love him or hate him- except for “Jazz.” I have yet to hear a negative review of this song. In many ways it feels like a Father song but with greater production value. The song builds beautifully and only gets better every time I listen to it. Love or hate Mick Jenkins, I definitely recommend checking this song out.
Set #6: REDMERCEDES, Amine
Amine is quickly becoming one of my favorite rappers. This song feels like a departure from his typical sound, but honestly I wish he’d do more songs in this vein. I love this side of his music just as much, if not more, than the melodic, more pop-centric music he’s known for. Much like “The Recipe,” I’m excited every time I find someone who likes this song.
Well, there it is. All my set lists are available on Spotify, just search “leef101.”