hip-hop collective Green Enkd Society are bringing something revolutionary to the rap game with their brand of lyricism and musicianship, and now they share their latest effort entitled Infamous Wizzardy. The 12-track body of work brings together lyricists Grand Wizzard MC and Jay Will, who trade bars over soul/jazz and off-kilter soundscapes.

As Green Enkd Society puts it in their press release, their core focus on lyricism and boundary-redefining sounds will not be understated as the first track, “GUNPOWDER & SUNFLOWERS,” comes into play. The soulful backdrop comprising warm vocals, lush keys and pads is punctuated by Grand Wizzard MC and Jay Will, who carry the track effortlessly with poise and charisma. Lines like “Steaming premium Broccoli, turn to Freddy Kreuger for any losers dreaming to stop me/They ride the wave like the sea brings Tsunami” set the tone properly and give audiences a taste of what to come. Next is “STILL MOE,” which has a solemn and reflective soundscape devoid of drums and here both rappers give testimonies to their come-up as they run their respective journeys in the game.  This is followed by “OYESTER PERPETUAL FLOW,” a showcase of black excellence alongside jewels for the melons, while “LUCIANO PAVAROTTI” sees the lyricists carrying the mantle of next-rated lyricism and storytelling over a mellow cinematic backdrop brimming with lush heavenly horns and smooth textures.

As far as concepts go, the project revolves around raw lyricism, vivid storytelling and hard-hitting beats with each track unveiling the different layers to Grand Wizzard MC and Jay Will’s artistry. “LEATHERFACE & VORHEES” references the classic horror film villains that have scared moviegoers for decades, and both rappers embody the visual terror of the respective characters. “INFAMOUS” is another verbal spectacle from the duo, and trust when I say, they are off the meat rack.  Jay Will’s laidback flow is punctuated by lines like “I spend a thou on denim/Gold prezzie, dead presidents to represent me/ and my temperament is cool as a fan/I let it blow, you lay a hand on me” while Grand Wizzard MC’s energetic swagger is heightened when he raps “eye for an eye bro, I’m blind with dedication nigga/May you meet your maker nigga/The devil’s waiting, hell’s impatient nigga.” The fun continues on the smokey “TABERNACLE” where the duo switch up their flow into a double time cadence. The track has a soulful vibe and an undeniable bounce bolstered by another round of bravado laced with insightful bars from the duo.

The project comes to a close with the celebratory “Championships” and the reflective “For The Children.” The former sees the duo basking in their success while flexing on the naysayers, while the latter focuses on what their true purpose in life is. They acknowledge the ups and downs of life and why they continue to hustle hard, and that is to prepare the future generation.  Other dope tracks include the dark cinematic vibe of “THE INCREDIBLE,” the hard-hitting but triumphant energy of “FLAWLESS VICTORY,” and the gloomy, menacing “THE DREAM CAR” that dives into their go-getter mentality.

To make a long story short, Infamous Wizzardy accomplishes its mission parameters and more as it clearly delivers on its promise. The production is top-notch and engaging from start to finish. The soulful textures are prevalent, and the laidback cinematic arrangements all make for a solid listening. As for the rappers, Grand Wizzard MC and Jay Will are overqualified and do the needful on each track. Their verses are impeccable, raw and edgy, but while they don’t get too personal, they do make up for it in the lyrical department.