Utah-based rapper KTHKNG (Jayden Keith King) unveils his new self-titled album JAYDEN. A 10 track body of work that showcases his experimental style of rap.

“AWAKEN INTRO” plays on the concept of the music saviour who is going through a physical transformation. The stage is set with Jayden as the titular character, who is being tended to by a pair of music medics as they discuss their future in this bleak music industry. The scene reaches a crescendo as Jayden is suddenly awakened from his coma and the project starts officially.

This is followed by “PUNISHER,” a dark, brooding piece that continues with Jayden’s awakening and coming to terms with his predicament. Here, Jayden embodies the dark side of his persona and forcefully draws audiences into his ominous dimension with spine-chilling intensity. The dark concept continues with “DARKO”, a laidback dark trap tune comprising elements of horrorcore and emo-vibes. Jayden pays homage to the cult character of Johnny Darko and takes on the anti-hero attributes.  On “KNOWNUNANTHEM,” the vibe switches up with thick bass-heavy soundscapes with spacey and atmospheric textures. Jayden flexes on the detractors and throws some game on the shorties with lines like “Cute shorty but you know I had to ghost her/But if I’m feeling freaky, pop up like a toaster” followed by a somewhat nonchalant hook to complete the job. Next is “SLOWDOWN” which starts with a scenic sample and pulsating bass arrangement. Here, Jayden employs a playful melodic style to deliver his heartfelt and emotionally pained thoughts. He shows a bit of vulnerability with a dash of irreverence. The soundscape is dynamic and slowly rises to a crescendo with different groove changes, and chord progressions.

On “DREAMIN (WOW),” a pop-infused emo-trap tune, Jayden utilizes an autotune-drenched vocal style reminiscent of Lil Yachty and Uzi Vert. He sounds comfortable for sure, but the overall premise is a bit too on the nose and doesn’t break from the norm or new grounds. “LIFELATELYINTERLUDE” explores his life, his experiences and aspirations. I like how he sounds a bit remorseful and reflective here. It’s a great change that offers audiences a different side to his character. “I LIKE” is a candid take on integrity, being true to oneself and everyone around. Over the bouncy backdrop, Jayden offers an unapologetic look at the things that make him tick. “Northwest $horty” revolves around several topics from fair-weather friends, white noise and finding inner peace. Over the soulful and plucky backdrop, Jayden delivers with a nonchalant drawl underpinned by candid lyricism.

 

The project closes out with the reflective “A BRIEF WORD FROM TAYLOR CONTARINO” and anthemic “GREENKONTAKTS”. The former talks about the true meaning of home and features narration from Taylor Contarino, who breaks the topic down superbly, while the latter gives audiences a triumphant close with it’s hard-hitting drums, anthemic textures and bravado raps from Jayden.

 

Overall, JAYDEN as a project stays true to its titular character. We get to hear his side of the story, and he bears all his flaws and scars. The production surely varies with a lot of solid, well-crafted tracks and a few ok soundscapes.