Futuristic electronic music and hip-hop are two of my favourite musical genres. Anytime a project brings both of those things together, it finds a special place in my heart. On Tax Free Toby does just that. The opening track ’17’ is a blend of tender vocal bends, sparkly synths and a touch of nostalgic reflection. It’s the perfect opener, exciting enough to draw you in, without overwhelming. Infusmus blends whispered vocals with smooth backpack influenced bars as he drifts over ‘Yoof’. A predominantly hazy backdrop is punched up with some rugged breaks to add a layer of complexity. ‘It’s Only Now’ packs a triumphant and cheery feel with a touch of emotion. The chopped and pitched up vocals create a sense of serotonin-infused clarity. The Napoleon Complex jumps on ‘Tell Them’ with tongue twisting barrage of bars that is reminiscent of a 2000’s underground hip-hop record. The production crafts a similar feel, to a slight extent. It’s a unique mix that’s classic rap and weird future soundscapes rolled in one. The result, and the entire EP for that matter, is a pleasant surprise that is almost guaranteed to appease. This is the first I’ve heard from Toby but it certainly won’t be the last. Stream the project below.
