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2015’s first volume of the Breaks includes new music from Fat Trel, videos from Awthentik and Rob Regal, and proof that Shy Glizzy‘s popularity is spreading.
Shy Glizzy’s Mainstream Surge Continues
Last summer, I wrote about how Shy Glizzy’s “Awwsome” crept out of the area and became a national semi-hit. Further proof arrived last week as his “Catch a Body” soundtracked Instagram videos of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrating their upset win over the Alabama Crimson Tide in the Sugar Bowl.
The rep grows bigger.
New Visuals from Awthentik
Awthentik keeps it simple in his new video for “God Willing.” He remains the focus, save for a few images spliced into the 92-second clip. The rapper/producer’s lyrics take center stage: “This that raw rap, I keep it all in store/Like a mall rat, the format, I’m walkin’ over rappers like this verse a pair of Jordans on your doormat…” Like his most recent project, Popular Misconception, it’s a deviation from the lackadaisical mainstream hip-hop he despises.
Rob Regal, True to the Game
Rob Regal shines bright as the area’s everyman rapper. Lyrical ability aside, his appeal lies in his vibe of someone you wouldn’t mind having a beer or watching a Wizards game with—-even if you’re not a Wizards fan. His new video, “Number One/Made Me,” is really two videos (directed by Matt Sugawara) in one, and his humble nature radiates from both.
On the SuprDopeBeats-produced “Number One,” Regal addresses his consistency and work ethic, which have yet to translate into mainstream success: “Guess I’m still a rookie with some D-League development/I’m speakin’ science, I’m comfy in my element.” On “Made Me,” produced by Str8beatz, he touches on what makes himself tick.
Regal isn’t complacent with his place on the music totem pole, but he’s wise enough to understand that a lasting career in music is an endurance test, not a sprint.
Brotherly Love, Fat Trel Style
Even when his delivery comes across as crude, Fat Trel is a soul whose intentions are good. On “My Bruvas,” he praises the select few non-blood-relatives he views as family. This drowsy ode to the fraternal bond is somewhat touching, but still includes Trel’s standard blunt delivery. Listen to it below.