T.E.E, the versatile rapper, producer, and audio engineer, defies expectations with his latest album, “Everything“. This isn’t your average boast-athon, although there is plenty of confidence to go about. Instead, the album’s 14 tracks unfold just like a late-night conversation with a close friend opening a window into his mind while standing under flickering streetlights. Taken as a whole “Everything” chronicles T.E.E‘s journey, from his North Carolina roots in Goldsboro to the infamous streets of Chicago. Each track pulsates with the struggles and triumphs that come with chasing a dream, delivered with a raw honesty that resonates deeply.
The album opens on a contemplative note with “Uber Backseat Freestyle”. Here, T.E.E acts as a lyrical tour guide, weaving a tapestry of vivid imagery that captures the emotional weight of leaving his hometown. His distinctive flow and smooth delivery are immediately on full display over a measured and melancholic backdrop, perfectly setting the stage for the album’s diverse soundscape.
“Work” showcases his lyrical prowess and dedication to the craft. Here, he emphasizes the importance of hard work and collaboration, delivering with confidence over a beat that prioritizes immediate impact over a traditional hook. This seamlessly transitions into “How It Goes”, which introduces the album’s first true hook with an undeniably pop stance on the production. T.E.E effortlessly showcases his ability to adapt to different tempos, while the addition of Jay Skillz Khan and Greg Dos adds flavour with their guest appearances.
The album’s versatility continues with “Bug Out”. This modern banger utilizes orchestral instrumentation alongside T.E.E‘s fast-paced vocals that will leave you buzzing. In contrast, “No Clout” offers a refreshing switch-up with old-school vibes and dominating ad-libs. The eeriness of “Mindin My Bidne$$” is accentuated by its minimal production, showcasing depth beyond high-energy tracks.
“Brolic Cypher” channels the spirit of the Wu-Tang Clan with its martial arts-inspired sample. The guest rappers here, like on other tracks, complement T.E.E rather than overshadow him, adding another layer of flavour to this tense sound.
“Soul Fire” is a thought-provoking introspective number. T.E.E lays bare his vulnerabilities over a dreamy and captivating beat, reflecting on the state of modern hip-hop and his own artistic growth. This introspective angle continues with “Propane. The jazz intro and T.E.E‘s laconic delivery create an otherworldly atmosphere, further enhanced by the unpredictable and trippy nature of the beat.
The latter half of the album continues to shine a spotlight on T.E.E‘s multifaceted artistry. Tracks like “.The Fall” and “Express/Confidence” showcase his original vocal timbre and ability to navigate between soulful and menacing vibes, all while maintaining an infectious sound. “Long Distance Lover” throws a curveball with its slightly off-key piano and SeQuence Clark‘s fantastic vocal hook, creating a unique and unexpected sonic blend. “No One Else” is a strong contender for my favourite track, an uplifting number that showcases T.E.E‘s rapping and creative spirit at its peak. The album closes on a strong note with “Time”. A lovely instrumental serves as the perfect launchpad for a final introspective reflection, leaving the listener with a sense of optimism for T.E.E‘s future.
Despite boasting several producers and guest artists, with diverse talents and vocal deliveries, “Everything” maintains a remarkable level of cohesion. T.E.E‘s rapping prowess and consistent flow serve as the binding thread, tying together the album’s diverse elements with his captivating narrative. Ultimately, “Everything” is an invitation to join T.E.E on his artistic exploration, a testament to the ever-evolving sounds of hip-hop, and a promising glimpse into the future of this rising star.
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