Multitalented rapper/singer/songwriter/producer K.O.V. unveils his new project BREAKBEAT DAYDREAM. The 13-track conceptual project centers on two major themes: self-exploration and sound. Here, K.O.V. takes listeners down the rabbit hole into his life as a young man and artist who is finding his footing. The sound aspect is split into two parts: breakbeats that form the backbone of classic hip-hop records and psychedelic elements that add emotions and texture to how he paints his pictures on wax. The project is a true reflection of who he is as he takes steps into forging a career out of his music with both feet.
As a self-produced project, BREAKBEAT DAYDREAM showcases a range of styles from K.O.V. He takes time in peeling back the layers that make up his core being. Like the opening “AUTHENTICITY.mp3,” where he gives an unfiltered look into his journey. Lines like “And I can feel it in my soul that they proud of me/I’m Repping for my hometown, that is how it be/Saw friends turn to enemy” underpin his reflective mindset, while on “SUNNY DAZE” he celebrates the small things that give him joy. On the moody “NEVERLAND,” he teams up with David Smiddy and pens an ode to fiendship. The track birms with punchy drum grooves and a contemporary pop vibe punctuated by relatable and heartfelt lyrics. “MOONLIGHT” is an adulation-filled piece that sees K.O.V. penning an open letter to his significant other. He pours his all into wax and shows unprecedented vulnerability while reminding them of his loyalty.
The project continues with a slew of tracks that show K.O.V.’s versatility as an artist who keeps raising the musical bar. “REFLECTIONS” lives up to its title as we get a glimpse into K.O.V.’s psyche. He sounds calm and relaxed over this smooth, dreamy backdrop, but the most interesting bit is his well-crafted songwriting that depicts the life of a man going with the flow and taking stock at the same time. Next is “TALKIN’” featuring Dave & Jerm, this jam is a solid collaboration that blends raw lyricism and soulful melodies over punchy break beats. This leads into the atmospheric “THE LEGEND OF BLUEBERRY FIELDS,” comprising a mantra-like flute and a memorable hook. Here, the rapper pens an engaging tale that follows a young man looking for something that is right in front of him all the time.
The project’s final tracks, “POLARIZING” and “SAY GOODBYE TO SUMMERTIME,” are closely threaded. The former is a modern jazz-infused track about love, while the latter pays homage to the warmest season of the year and the memories that were created. It’s a bittersweet piece that everyone can relate to. Other notable tracks include the modern pop vibes of “BRAINROT,” the brooding “WARM WELCOME” featuring David Smiddy or the bright summery textures on “DAYDREAM.” The tracks give listeners different sides to K.O.V.’s artistry and knack for penning heartwarming songs that capture each moment in time.
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