released: september 30th

genre: hip-hop

from: cyprus / italy (both based in london, uk)

label: self-released

a few thoughts: two friends of mine, two super talented artists in their own right. i’ve known chewbeats for quite a few years now, and i keep telling him he’s one of my favourite producers. the italian beatmaker has created quite a soulful, lush, eclectic and punchy soundscape for andre masters to rhyme effortlessly throughout. talking often about his personal growth, mental health over the years – he said in their release party for the album that quite a few of the lyrics and themes came from him being in a darker, more difficult place in his life, which contrasts somewhat with where he is right now. “withholding” is a vulnerable moment on the album, and paints a picture of his struggles, all on a soulful loop that complements the energy of the track poignantly. the beat and groove of “joust” is infectious as well, while “crème fraîche” has this jazzy beat and intimate lyrics, yo-yoing between english and greek. features clbrks (“overnight courier”), youngmorpheus (“seppuku”) and rillflyninja (“sir gaga”) bring their own personalities and colours to an already vibrant project. “think twice then think again” closes the album out beautifully with a soulful, moving beat, reminding us to follow our heart and stay true to ourselves, again providing personal anecdotes exploring his state of mind, all on a jazzy, meditative beat. there is so much to admire about think twice then think again. their chemistry is so good, chew really gave andre some incredible beats to rhyme over. it’s a cohesive, well sequenced album with skits, intros and outros that make it feel cinematic. a stellar project indeed!

the album: https://music.apple.com/gb/album/think-twice-then-think-again/1841587179