Album: Mind Over Matter – Keepin’ It Breezy

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The rap game is proving now more than ever to be a young man’s game. It is fitting then that Sydney-based Hip Hop act Mind Over Matter, consisting of Willow and Smiles Again, emerge during this musical climate. The term “the future of Australian Hip Hop” has been thrown around all too much recently upon the arrival of a new artist or group on the scene, a term which has been associated with Mind Over Matter and their debut Keepin’ It Breezy. Is the statement hyperbole or reality, let’s find out.

One characteristic that strikes you upon listening to Keepin’ It Breezy is the unique and world-class production. From the Beatnuts-esque horn-happy debauchery of Chillin’ In The Brewery to Long Haul (with its stadium rock feel) and most interestingly with Styalz Fuego’s carefully constructed Proud, where the duo are joined by a 25-piece choir.

You can also pick up some disparity between the MCs during your listening experience. Smiles Again provides the more battle-ready element with his nimble flow, while Willow possesses more of the charm and charisma, with an enthusiastic flow that seems to lag behind a few of the beats at times (most clearly on City of Stars), his enthusiasm overtaking his finesse; which at times works to his favour and adds a different element to the tracks. Combining the different talents and quirks you get a solid and varied Hip Hop tag team who compliment each other exceptionally.

Sunshine appropriately enough is one of the album’s brightest moments, where Willow and Smiles are able to showcase their flows to fine effect and display some storytelling ability over a soulful vocal-sampling backdrop. The international flavour of Clipped Wings, with its cameo from Cannibal Ox man Vast Aire, has potential but ultimately sounds clunky and awkward. On the other hand, the boys sound more than comfortable on the beautifully melancholic Fate, not sure about that hook though. Mind Over Matter seem to have a knack for motivational anthems (there could be a Tony Robbins-styled career on the cards) as they capably prove on the emotionally-charged closer A Beautiful Truth.

Mind Over Matter prove themselves to be likable and inspirational throughout the course of their 16-track debut album. At the same time, you can’t help but feel somewhat flat, like you haven’t necessarily heard anything new. The Sydney duo have laid some solid groundwork on Keepin’ It Breezy, it will be interesting to hear where they go next. Entertaining and enlightening fare from the Syd City duo.

Available through Nurcha Records