In 2014 we named Oddisee the Best Rapper/Producer You’ve Never Heard Of. Although his fan base has grown strongly in the past two years, the title is still applicable. Oddisee operates in an interesting space; he’s large enough to book consistent world tours and live comfortably off his music, while still avoiding mainstream ears. His latest release Al Wasta is a powerful 7 track EP that is sure accumulate new listeners and please die-hard fans. It’s exceptionally produced with a raw and true to the word hip-hop feel. What makes it so strong is the lyrical gems woven throughout. Oddisee’s personal and reflective lyrics combine with social commentary and witty punchlines for a mixture that is assured to having you hitting rewind. His ability to drop knowledge without coming off preachy conjures memories of Common’s description of why he fell in love with the genre on ‘I Used To Love Her’. Whether he’s teasing new perspectives on drug use (‘Slow Groove’) or talking politics and the refugee crisis (‘Lifting Shadows’), he manages to do it in a way that is entertaining and thought provoking. I could riddle this post with notable quotables but it’s better that you experience them for yourself. Stream Alwasta below and grab the free download on BandCamp. Also look out for a new instrumental album in May and a full length project in the Fall, it’s going to be a big year.
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