We Speak Indie Artist

DZE LIKE RZA Drops The Phenomenal “First Time”

Published

5 months ago

June 27, 2024

Music4U

Phoenix’s own DZE LIKE RZA has just unveiled his latest single, “First Time”, and it’s a masterclass in blending old-school hip-hop vibes with fresh, personal storytelling. This track is a trip down memory lane for anyone who grew up on the gritty, raw sounds of the ‘90s East Coast rap scene. If you’re a fan of ODB’s wild charisma or DMX’s raw intensity, “First Time” will hit you right in the feels.

Let’s talk about that beat first. It’s like someone took a classic Timbaland track and infused it with a dose of 2024 swagger. Heavy piano keys set the mood, creating a vibe that’s both nostalgic and undeniably modern. The tempo is just right, making it impossible not to nod your head along. This isn’t just background music; it demands your attention from the first note.

DZE LIKE RZA’s storytelling on “First Time” is top-notch. He takes us back to his younger days, sharing a story about crushing on an older woman who didn’t quite see him the same way. It’s a tale as old as time, but DZE injects it with a fresh perspective and a dose of his own experience. His lyrics are raw and honest, capturing that mix of hope and frustration we’ve all felt at some point. Lines like “For her I feel like I would die in the ring” are delivered with such conviction you can’t help but feel the intensity of his emotions.

What really stands out is how DZE manages to balance introspection with an upbeat, infectious energy. This isn’t a melancholic look back at unrequited love; it’s a celebration of the lessons learned and the growth that comes with them. The track’s energy is infectious, making it perfect for both deep listening sessions and blasting at a party.

DZE LIKE RZA has a voice that’s both gritty and compelling. There’s a rawness to his delivery that’s reminiscent of the greats, yet he maintains a unique style that sets him apart. You can hear the influence of the East Coast legends, but DZE is very much his own artist. His ability to weave personal stories into his music while keeping the listener engaged is a testament to his talent and potential.

DZE LIKE RZA is here to remind us of the power of storytelling in hip-hop, and he does so with a track that’s as catchy as it is meaningful. If this is a taste of what’s to come, then hip-hop fans have a lot to look forward to. In a world where hip-hop often feels saturated with the same old themes, “First Time” is a breath of fresh air. DZE LIKE RZA brings something new to the table while paying homage to the genre’s roots. Whether you’re a longtime hip-hop head or just looking for something real and relatable, give “First Time” a spin. DZE LIKE RZA is definitely an artist to keep on your radar.

We Speak Indie Artist

FRGN-SPCMN’s RIDE AROUND THE SUN: A Masterpiece of Sound, Reflection, and Emotional Depth

Published

4 days ago

November 19, 2024

Music4U

North Carolina-based producer duo FRGN-SPCMN, composed of Ronnie Belle and André Jones, have crafted an album that feels as much like a personal diary as it does a universal meditation. RIDE AROUND THE SUN is a vivid exploration of life’s complexities, set against a backdrop of experimental beats, rich instrumentation, and hauntingly introspective lyrics. Known for their collaborations with Coast Contra and TDE’s Lance Skiiiwalker, as well as their contributions to Issa Rae’s Insecure soundtrack, FRGN-SPCMN have taken their own artistry to new heights with this release.

At its core, RIDE AROUND THE SUN is a reflection on the dualities that define our existence—pain and pleasure, chaos and calm, struggle and growth. The title track, featuring Mez and Ace Henderson, serves as the album’s emotional anchor. Mez’s poignant storytelling tackles systemic struggles and personal resilience, while Henderson’s smooth, reflective chorus encapsulates the perpetual search for peace and meaning. The lyric, “Round and round the sun again, I feel like I should go,” feels like a mantra for anyone grappling with the cyclical nature of life’s challenges.

The production throughout the album is strikingly cinematic. Inspired by a transformative trip to Joshua Tree, Belle and Jones weave together sounds that evoke the vastness of the desert. Tracks like “TO THE SKY” and “LOVE IN VEIN” combine earthy guitar riffs, subtle electronic flourishes, and layered percussion, creating a soundscape that feels both grounded and surreal. The duo’s ability to create space within their music allows listeners to lose themselves in its expansiveness while connecting deeply to the themes it explores.

What sets this album apart is its pacing and cohesion. FRGN-SPCMN have mastered the art of creating a narrative arc within their music. From the contemplative opener (“DAWN”) to the meditative closer (“CABANA BLUE”), each track feels intentional and interconnected. The tempos remain largely laid-back, but there’s an underlying tension—a pull that mirrors the unpredictability of life. It’s the kind of album that rewards repeated listens, with new details revealing themselves each time.

Beyond the sonics, RIDE AROUND THE SUN is a call for empathy and understanding. The duo’s message is clear: while our individual journeys may differ, we are all passengers on this shared ride around the sun. It’s an album that doesn’t just entertain but challenges the listener to reflect on their place in the world.

In a time when music often feels disposable, FRGN-SPCMN have delivered a project that demands attention and reflection. RIDE AROUND THE SUN is a masterpiece of sound and substance—a reminder of the beauty and complexity of the human experience. For those seeking depth, emotion, and artistry, this album is not to be missed.