Welcoming the ever-talented Arjay Smith to our platform is a true delight. Hailing from Norwalk, Southern California, Arjay is a dedicated husband and father and a multifaceted artist excelling as an actor, voice-over artist, and music producer. With his recent musical endeavor, he invites us into a realm of experienced rhythm and intelligent beats, offering a deeply personal slice of his artistic journey. His passion for music transcends mere notes and melodies, crafting an evocative dialogue that speaks directly to the soul. We are honored to dive into his EP, “Old Man Rookie Instrumentals, Pt. 1: Fives Up,” and explore the rich tapestries he has woven into this masterpiece.
From the moment one presses play, “Old Man Rookie Instrumentals, Pt. 1: Fives Up” grabs hold of the senses and refuses to let go. The EP starts with “Afta-U,” a track that instantly sets the tone for what’s coming. The beat is a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation, reminiscent of the classic East Coast sound while introducing fresh, dynamic elements. The drum patterns are meticulously crafted, creating a cadence that feels both familiar and new. The melodic elements float gracefully over the rhythm, creating an immersive experience that invites repeated listens.
Next up is “Space In Time,” a track that lives up to its name by taking us on a journey through ethereal soundscapes. The beat here is spacious, allowing each element to breathe and resonate. Arjay’s attention to detail shines through, with intricate layers of sound that reveal themselves upon each listen. The melodies are hauntingly beautiful, evoking a sense of introspection and wonder.
“Dead Pres.” follows, delivering a harder-hitting beat that demands attention. The bassline is robust and grounding, while the percussion drives the track forward with an undeniable force. Despite its boldness, this track maintains an elegant balance, with soulful samples woven seamlessly into the mix. This closeness of strength and subtlety is a testament to Arjay’s skill as a producer. To top it all, there’s a scratch in the middle of this piece that wowed me.
“The Survival (9 to 5)” is a narrative masterpiece, encapsulating the grind and perseverance of daily life. The beat mirrors this theme, with a steady, relentless rhythm that embodies the 9-to-5 hustle. Yet, there’s an underlying layer of hope and resilience, conveyed through uplifting melodies and harmonies. It’s a track that speaks to the universal struggle and triumph of the human experience.
Finally, we arrive at “Boom bap’tism,” a celebration of the boom-bap tradition. This track is a nod to the roots of hip-hop, with its classic drum patterns and gritty textures. Arjay breathes new life into this traditional sound, infusing it with his unique touch. The result is a track that feels both timeless and contemporary, a perfect closing statement for the EP.
Arjay Smith’s “Old Man Rookie Instrumentals, Pt. 1: Fives Up” is more than just a collection of beats; it’s a cohesive narrative woven through sound. Each track is a chapter, inviting us to embark on a journey of introspection and connection. In a genre often dominated by vocalists, Arjay’s focus on instrumental storytelling is a bold and refreshing choice, resulting in an immersive sonic experience. It’s a breath of fresh air in an era oversaturated with disposable beats, showcasing the enduring power of instrumental hip-hop and Arjay’s undeniable talent as a producer.
Listen to the “Old Man Rookie Instrumentals, Pt. 1: Fives Up” EP on Bandcamp
You can follow Arjay Smith on Instagram for more information.
PS: The artist was discovered on MusoSoup, and a contribution was made to publish this.
#SustainableCurator
