released: may 30, 2024

genre: grime / hip-hop

from: london, uk

label: levels

a few thoughts: london-based poet, musician and dj james massiah has been quite active recently with regular dj set appearances and live shows, and has complemented this with a brand new ep titled true romance. it’s a punchy, groovy and hard-hitting project, with heavy, grime and inspired drumming and atmospheric synths that add a colourful energy to the production. “heartbreak freestyle” opens the album off with incredible energy and a reflective james, who reflects on heartbreak and what true romance really means. the way he flows throughout the track is hypnotising, and he carries that energy throughout the project. the colourful synth melodies on “soon touch” are incredible too, giving it an uplifting and sexy energy to it, as reflected by james massiah’s lyrics as he flows effortlessly throughout. the dynamic “charlie” is an energetic, drum-heavy energy that perfectly complements james’ charismatic delivery. “hot forever” is another great cut, with james massiah speaking on his experience growing up in london and all the struggles that come from growing up working class in london. it’s an introspective cut and one that showcases james messiah’s talents as a writer, with visual wordplay that brings the track to life. “last kiss (end scene)” is a dynamic, groovy cut with emphatic basslines and synth melodies. it’s an uplifting, atmospheric cut that’s stunning. james’ incredible rapping throughout adds to the grandiosity of the track. “last kiss (dub reprise)”, a bandcamp exclusive, is this incredible broken-beat instrumental cut that focuses its energy on the balance between the beautiful and atmospheric synths, and the heavy, broken-beat drumming that’s frantic and intense. true romance EP is an excellent new project from one of london’s most exciting new independent voices making music today.

the project: