Apollo shows major promise with Freshman release of “Stay of Adjudication”

Album Review by: Jake Faircloth

Apollo's debut album, "Stay Of Adjudication," is a breathtaking journey through the depths of human emotions, offering a raw and introspective look into the artist's life. With a collection of eight deeply personal tracks, Apollo fearlessly bares his soul, allowing listeners to connect with his experiences on a profound level.

The title track, "Stay Of Adjudication," sets the tone for the album, introducing us to Apollo's distinctive lyrical style and captivating flow. His words paint vivid pictures of his struggles, legal battles, and the constant fight for justice. The haunting melody carries a sense of urgency, further emphasizing the weight of his words.

Another standout and my personal favorite is "Scared Of Love"; a poignant reflection on the complexities of relationships and the fear of vulnerability. Apollo's ability to convey raw emotions shines through in this track, as he navigates the delicate balance between love and self-preservation. The production perfectly captures the essence of his internal struggle, blending melancholic tones with pulsating beats.

As the album progresses, "Die For You" takes us on an emotional rollercoaster, exploring themes of sacrifice and unwavering love, accompanied by a woman’s voice telling him she’s had enough. The heartfelt lyrics and despair in Apollo’s voice are accompanied by a hauntingly beautiful melody that tugs at the heartstrings. Apollo's ability to evoke such intense emotions through his music is truly remarkable.

The album concludes with "A Father's Hymn”; a tribute dedicated to his son, Elijah. The song captures the unconditional love and unbreakable bond shared between a father and his child. With soul-stirring lyrics and a melodic rhythm, Apollo pours his emotions into each verse, expressing his hopes, dreams, and unwavering love for his little one. In a touching twist, the song features the angelic voice of Elijah himself, as he talks to his father, sharing innocent insights and genuine admiration. This collaboration beautifully encapsulates the pure and profound connection between a father and his son, creating a timeless anthem of love and devotion that resonates with listeners of all ages.

Overall, "Stay Of Adjudication" is a captivating and emotionally charged debut album from Apollo. His ability to convey emotions through his lyrics, combined with captivating production, creates an immersive listening experience. Apollo fearlessly explores themes of love, struggle, growth, and gratitude, inviting listeners to reflect on their own journeys. With this album, Apollo solidifies his place as a rising star in the rap industry, leaving us eagerly anticipating what he has in store for the future.

Apollo's "Stay of Adjudication" is available for streaming across all Digital Streaming Platforms

Lil Nuka STILL got his “Scale On”

Music Video Review by: Jake Faircloth

Lil Nuka is no stranger to The Scale, and on the surface level his new video/single may seem like just another drug dealing rapper song, but there’s much more to it. From my POV "Scale On" featuring Allstar JR is a glimpse into the transition from illegal to legitimate business ventures.

The music video, directed by Cinema Davis, perfectly complements the narrative of the song, not only with the physical representation of money, but both Nuka as well as his counterpart just simply looking like money.

From the opening scene, the video sets an atmospheric tone in the George R. Brown District in Houston, TX. The use of street lighting creates a sense of authenticity, immersing the viewer in Nuka’s world. As the song progresses, we witness Lil Nuka and Allstar JR’s confidence in the words they’re rapping, showing no signs of going backwards.

One of the standout aspects of the music video is the symbolism employed throughout. The artists cleverly use visual cues and branding to represent the shift from illicit activities to legitimate entrepreneurship.

Cinema Davis's direction showcases a keen eye for detail, capturing the artists' performances with precision. The seamless editing and dynamic camera work keep the viewer engaged. The video effectively conveys the message being delivered in the song.

Furthermore, the music video's production value is top-notch. The high-quality visuals and polished cinematography enhance the overall viewing experience, elevating the song's impact. The attention to detail in the locations, clothing, and even the product placement further contribute to the video's overall aesthetic appeal.

Nuka's new project featuring "Scale On" is available across all Digital Streaming Platforms NOW!!!

[LISTEN] Solo Davis drops brand new single “HOOPT!E”

Single Review by: Jake Faircloth

Solo Davis definitely has a summer slap on his hands with his latest beatsbyfalak produced single "HOOPT!E", but my takeaway was a bit more introspective. On the surface the song could be characterized by his unique vocal inflections and laid-back delivery over a hard-hitting a beat, but from my POV I hear someone expressing their ability to defy odds. Despite riding around in an old ‘97 Honda, Solo has found a way to attract women, make plays, get money, etc. I hear someone that feels proud of the way they’ve been able to defeat the odds.

Using a sped up sample of Nicole Croisille's 1971 song "I'll Never Leave You", the song's beat is infectious and draws you in instantly. Solo's confident and boisterous delivery perfectly matches the energetic nature of the song, making it the listeners instinct to turn the volume up a few extra notches from the moment the beat drops.

Photo via Instagram @soloissolit

While the lyrics seem primarily about Solo flexing his rap abilities with slight references to his "HOOPT!E", it's all done in good fun and adds to the carefree vibe of the song. With a fairly extensive catalogue, "HOOPT!E" is a great addition to Solo Davis' discography and a must-listen for fans of his music or anyone looking for a catchy and upbeat rap song with perhaps a little more meaning than first meets the ear.

“HOOPT!E” is available for streaming across all Digital Streaming Platforms