Blac Samurai

Blac Samurai – Soul Glitch

Written by: Lee Callaghan

When I was first exposed to Blac Samurai’s music, I was a little apprehensive. Being labeled a student of the greats in hip-hop, I was expecting a derivative offering, chalked full of rap clichés and tired beats. However, when I received Blac Samurai’s latest release, Soul Glitch I was taken aback. Soul Glitch is a
fresh, and challenging offering, with new samples I have not heard a million times, and beats that change
tempo, revolve around different themes and punch in on cadences similar to Reggae and RnB. Although, clearly a hip-hop release Soul Glitch utilizes this syncopation effectively, and leaves the listener engaged to want to absorb the entire nine-track performance. With opener-track Born Like This, Blac Samurai demonstrates his dynamic approach to instrumentation, building tension with simple off-beats and clever digital melodies, before dropping his rap over a down-tempo beat allowing his voice to carry out with ease. Dreams also features this laid-back approach to the funk, while developing the syncopation again, instead of trying to impress with hard and fast beats to accompany his superlative and quick rhyme scheme. The Matrix builds on the theme of embracing the digital culture and the expression of the wonders and consequences of the digital age. Presented with the elegant lead-in, this track is my highlight track to this album.

Although reviewing all nine tracks on Soul Glitch is outside the scope of this review, I have to point out the professional and mature approach Blac Samurai has taken with this album. All tracks are clear, with plenty of allotted headroom, so you can crank this one up extra loud without any distortion or unwanted noise. With clever use of eclectic samples, ranging from soothing to eerie, Soul Glitch has more to offer as a concept, performance piece than to just the incredible rapping talent Blac Samurai displays. With that being said, pay special attention to the imagery each of his tracks convey, as he couples metaphor with real, down-to-earth concepts that challenge the listener at every turn. This production would make Soul Glitch an excellent addition to any Urban radio playlist, and a perfect addition to any club mix. The expressive melodies and effective use of harmony make each track memorable and worthy of multiple listens. Perhaps, as a student of the masters, Blac Samurai has mastered what they did right and used his wisdom and experience to blend his own sound. A very enjoyable album, worthy to be played alongside the greats like Wu-Tang Clan, Biggie, and Outkast.

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