The piece of work I listened to by Paigey Cakey was her album “Killy.” From the outset, it’s clear that the UK drill scene heavily influences her. Her style and delivery are reminiscent of prominent figures in the genre, and she could be likened to a female version of Skepta. However, her approach and style differentiate her from artists like Enny and Little Simz. Paigey Cakey demonstrates her versatility throughout the album, seamlessly transitioning from what would be considered mumble rap to a more melodic rap style. This showcases her ability to navigate different musical landscapes.

One notable aspect of “Killy” is that the songs’ titles don’t necessarily match the lyrics. This is a common trait in the drill and UK hip-hop scenes, where the relationship between a song’s title and content is often absent. Typically, the title is mentioned a few times within the track, but it doesn’t serve as the central theme. This approach allows for more creative freedom in lyrical content and structure, a characteristic that Paigey Cakey embraces in her work.

Throughout “Killy,” Paigey Cakey’s technical skills are evident. Her ability to switch between styles within the same album demonstrates a commendable artistry. For example, tracks that feature more melodic rap highlight her ability to craft catchy hooks and deliver them with a smooth vocal style. On the other hand, her forays into mumble rap showcase her ability to ride a beat with a more laid-back, almost nonchalant delivery. This duality is a strength, showing she can have multiple styles. However, her music’s lack of a robust and unique voice means it doesn’t leave a lasting impression. In a world with so many talented rappers, standing out is essential, and Paigey Cakey’s familiarity with styles makes it difficult for her to carve out a distinct niche. Her music is enjoyable and well-produced but lacks the innovative spark that might elevate it to the next level.

Despite her efforts to showcase versatility, Paigey Cakey’s music blends in with many other artists trying to break into the mainstream. Her sound, while simple, lacks a unique element that sets her apart from the crowd. She has a solid grasp of the drill and hip-hop styles, but her music has a generic quality that makes it less memorable. She is a sound artist; her music feels repetitive, echoing the sounds and styles of those who have come before her without adding a distinctly personal touch.

In conclusion, Paigey Cakey’s “Killy” album is overall a good album that showcases her ability to navigate different styles within the UK drill and hip-hop scenes. Her music is technically sound and enjoyable but lacks the unique, memorable quality that distinguishes the best artists in the genre. While she is undoubtedly talented, finding a more distinctive voice and style could help her stand out more in the competitive world of hip-hop.

The work I listened to from Enny is “U Shld Heal.” The first thing that struck me was that Enny differed from Little Simz. Enny’s music can be characterized as transparent, articulate rapping, allowing listeners to grasp her messages and themes fully. Enny is known for addressing contemporary societal issues in her music, and “U Shld Heal” is no exception. This album continues her tradition of insightful thinking, except for the song “No More Naija Men,” which diverges into a more humorous view.

“No More Naija Men” stands out on the album for its comedic approach. This track discusses the concept of the “Yoruba demon,” a term used in Nigerian culture to describe a young Yoruba Nigerian man known for being a smooth-talking playboy. In a way, this song speaks about the societal issue of Yoruba men. The song humorously explores the struggles of a woman who finds herself repeatedly involved with these so-called Yoruba demons. The music video enhances this narrative, showing a woman who, despite recognizing the stress Nigerian men bring her, can’t seem to stay away from them. With its playful tone and relatable story, this track adds a light-hearted element to the otherwise serious album.

Enny’s effortlessly blending melody and lyricism is one of her standout qualities. She embodies what it means to be a woman in hip-hop today, balancing strong will, meaningful lyrics with captivating melodies, and being unapologetically yourself. This combination makes her music thought-provoking and enjoyable to listen to.

My favorite song on the album, “2 AM in Central,” is a prime example of her talent. This track is a beautiful representation of Enny’s artistic capability. The song flows effortlessly, showcasing her lyrical prowess and melodic sensibilities. It stands out for its beauty and depth. Enny’s unique sound is complex compared to any other artist, making her music so distinctive.

Listening to “U Shld Heal,” it’s evident that Enny is a voice for her generation, addressing issues that are relevant and important to her. Her songs often tackle societal problems, offering commentary and reflection through her lyrics. This album continues that tradition, solidifying her place in hip-hop as an artist with something significant to say.

Enny’s music goes beyond entertainment; it serves as a platform for dialogue about real-world issues. She uses her voice and her art to shed light on topics that matter, making her music resonate on a deeper level with her audience. Her thoughtful approach to songwriting combined with her ability to craft memorable melodies sometimes leaves me speechless.

Overall, “U Shld Heal” is an album showcasing her ability to blend serious themes with engaging music, creating a body of impactful and enjoyable work. Enny represents the future of hip-hop and what you wish the typical woman rapper would be. Where melody and message coexist and where artists use their platforms to inspire change and reflection. Her unique sound and powerful lyrics make her a standout artist, one who is sure to leave a lasting impact on the music world.

The piece of work that I ended up listening to from Little Simz was her most recent body of work, “Drop 7.” This album has some connection to luck from the title alone, as seven is regarded as a lucky number. As I listened more to the album, I felt a distinct futuristic vibe within each song. An artist who automatically came to mind while I listened to “Drop 7” was Missy Elliot, known for her innovative and boundary-pushing music. Like Missy Elliot, Little Simz’s latest album prioritized its unique soundscapes and rhythmic experimentation over its lyricism.

The beats and flow in “Drop 7” create an immersive listening experience, often looking over the lyrics themselves. For example, the first track, “Mood Swings,” repetitively features the phrase “mood swings” in its lyrics. However, the carefree beat truly encapsulates the meaning of mood swings for me personally. This beat evokes the fluctuating emotional characteristics of mood swings, where a person might choose between feeling carefree and indifferent. The sound reminded me of the sensation of entering college for the first time and experiencing alcohol. If you recall the feeling of your first drink, you might remember a sense of freedom or even paranoia after consuming too much. This is the exact vibe that “Mood Swings” conveys to me.

I can actively imagine a DJ using “Mood Swings” to energize a crowd, seamlessly mixing it with other tracks to maintain a lively atmosphere. The entire album has this quality of sound. The beats are dynamic and engaging, making it an ideal selection for a DJ looking to keep a crowd on their feet. The album’s futuristic sound, coupled with its rhythmic sound, makes it perfect for dance floors.

The other “Drop 7” tracks also contribute to this overall vibe. Each song has its distinct beat and rhythm, creating a well-blended yet varied listening experience. The production quality is excellent, with layers of sounds that build and grow throughout each track. This attention to detail in the production adds to the album’s futuristic feel. The way Little Simz experiments with different sounds and beats in “Drop 7” is reminiscent of Missy Elliot’s groundbreaking work. Both artists pushed boundaries within their genres, creating music that is innovative and ahead of its time. Little Simz’s willingness to explore those sounds and styles is apparent in this album, making it a standout work in her discography. “Drop 7” is a testament to Little Simz’s growth as an artist. It shows her ability to create sonically interesting and emotionally relatable music. The beats and rhythms in the album show a wide range of emotions, from carefree joy to intense reflection of the inner self, making “Drop 7” compelling.

In conclusion, “Drop 7” by Little Simz is an album that captivates with its futuristic beats and rhythmic flow. While the lyrics are meaningful, the music takes center stage, creating a dynamic listening experience. This album is a perfect example of how Little Simz continues to push the boundaries of her music, much like Missy Elliot has done throughout her career. Whether you are a fan of innovative beats or looking for music to excite a crowd, “Drop 7” delivers in all areas.