One of South London’s finest, Genesis Elijah returns with his latest release, a free, yes FREE EP suitably entitled ‘I ain’t even charging bruv’, a release by any artist on those terms has got to be good value, but when you know Genesis is lacing the tracks it’s guaranteed to be a winner.
The EP is seven tracks deep with a skit included, it kicks off in big style with ‘Battle Cry UK’, Genesis’ rasping flow over anthemic production by The Audible Doctor merges perfectly. Genesis spits every word like he means it and you know he does. Bare quotables on this track:
if hip hop’s dead, then I’m dragging its dead corpse around
being one of many as he puts the world and the scene to rights.
The next one ‘Crazy World’ sees Pastor Dutchie handling production duties; we see the mood relax a little bit, Genesis’ subject matter turns reflective and the change in pace works well after the hypeness of the opening track. ‘Matter of Time’ turns rowdy again, Genesis again changing his flow up to spit double time over a 2-step riddim, I’m not feeling the hook but I’m feeling the way Genesis showcases his skills and variety in his work after only 3 tracks in.
‘Reign of Fire’ sees the production going big again courtesy of Deadman Walkn, now I’m not usually a fan of singing in hip hop unless it’s Nate Dogg but the singing on the hook (his promo doesn’t tell us who it is) really makes the track for me.
After a skit with Skepta, the horn led ‘The King’s Speech’ comes in, the repetitive nature of the horns means it’s the track I’m feeling the least, Genesis comes heavy again on a battle/bragging tip, but it’s not one that I’ll be rewinding too much because of the production.
The EP concludes with ‘To the Grave’ produced by Architect, the vibe winds down again with Genesis on a biographical tip and making observations on the scene and where he fits into it. This is a solid ending to the EP, both lyrically and musically.
All in all this is another quality release from a quality emcee, it’s the way Genesis can switch up subject matters, flows and styles with ease which really shines through. This EP comes ahead of his mixtape ‘I ain’t even started bruv’ due for release in July, so do yourself a favour and get it downloaded; after all, he ain’t even charging bruv…