Mind Flex’s new song “Gunpowder” is out now. The trio is composed of members chace., ramon., and Francois Octave, all of which embrace their own individual verses on “Gunpowder.” The track is driven by its sustained booming 808s that provide a warm backdrop for Mind Flex’s raps. Their confident and boastful lyrics come with a paradoxically graceful delivery.
I feel like Mind Flex’s unique style is a good fit for fans of Injury Reserve or even Paris Texas. Distant vocal samples add unique textural idiosyncrasies–one of which repeatedly whispers the song’s title. All three members provide memorable verses, each showcasing their distinct facets.
You can find “Gunpowder” on our Hip Hop 2025 Playlist.
Dominick Giovanni and Mantangi have released their new track “Defibrillator” produced by Genesis7. The beat’s horn and piano stabs combine with vocal samples and menacing ambient strings to construct the beginnings of a New York influenced instrumental. With the Boom Bap drums layered on top, it’s easy to imagine Wu-Tang Clan rapping over this beat, although its rhythmic structure reminds me more so of The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Kick in the Door” or even Dr. Dre’s “The Watcher.”
With their inner-line rhymes and witty punchlines, it feels like Dominick Giovanni and Mantangi are meant for the most attentive of listeners. The contrast in their vocal tones allows for more variation throughout the song and appeals to listeners of various tastes. Dominick Giovanni and Mantangi are here to revive Hip Hop’s Golden Age.
Check out “Defibrillator” on our Hip Hop 2025 Playlist.
After hearing Amar Miller’s “High 21” and “Foul 38,” it’s easy to identify that both tracks come from the same artist. It’s not that both tracks sound the same, it’s that Miller has curated his own unique vibe that makes him an easily identifiable artist. “High 21,” where Miller raps alone, is a tranquil romantic anthem about how love can be like a drug. The modest drums make room for dreamy guitars and bells to guide Miller’s emotional lyrics through the track.
“Foul 38,” on the other hand, welcomes featured artists Dre Wave$ and Wakai, and is more propelled by its heavy kicks and crisp rimshots. Pitched down vocals and glistening bell strums only fuel the dreamlike state of Miller’s sound, and the features bring a fresh energy to the track. I’m hoping “High 21” and “Foul 38” are the beginnings of a full-length LP, because their synergy is something that’s often missing in Hip Hop music today.
“High 21” and “Foul 38” are on our Hip Hop 2025 Playlist.
The Wild Is Calling 