Released: November 17, 2023

Genre: Electronic / Hip-hop

From: US

Why you should listen: H31R is an exciting and innovative duo consisting of New Jersey based producer JWords and New York-based emcee maassai. They’ve been releasing music for a while now, but their 2020 debut ve​·​loc​·​i​·​ty as H31R made me a fan. JWords’ futuristic and dynamic production is hypnotic, while maassai’s intricate raps and flows speak on her experiences as a Black woman in the US, with observational and sometimes dark and introspective lyricism that complements the jagged and rhythmic soundscapes throughout their music. HeadSpace is an incredible 14-track album, with a cohesion and intricacy to it that makes it their most complete album to date. The tracks are short but punchy and don’t overstay their welcome. The jagged and glitchy opener “Glitch In Time” sets the tone for the rest of the album, as maassai spits effortlessly questioning folks about their true intentions poignantly throughout. The smooth synths on the otherwise punchy and heavy beat on “Backwards” makes it an early highlight, as maassai’s punchy raps are perfect for this rough and dynamic soundscape. “Big Bang” has these heavy, guttural drums, while Semirahtruth’s feature on “Glass Ceiling” is exceptional, as they flow effortlessly and triumphantly over a colourful instrumental. “Shadow Self” is smoother and melodic, as maassai’s gentle vocals on this track are gorgeous. Her introspective and vulnerable lyricism is perfect for the energy of this track, as she champions self-love and a no-bullshit attitude towards negative energy. A news years resolution for this year for sure. “Rotation” is fantastic too, while the soulful “Right Here” is another highlight for me, with a sensual verse from maassai. “Down Down Bb” featuring Quelle Chris is fantastic too, with both emcees flowing effortlessly over an intricate and off-kilter beat, highlighting the extent of their skills on the mic. Legends. “Static” along with “Air it Out” close the album with final reflection on the state of the world around them and championing self-love and acceptance for a better world. The production throughout the album is exemplary of JWords’ talents as a producer – I believe she’s one of the most innovative artists within the electronic and hip-hop space, while the raps are exemplary of maassai’s talents – her presence and words are poignant, punchy and unapologetic. HeadSpace is a culmination of this incredible creativity from two of the most exciting voices within the independent hip-hop and electronic scenes.

The album: