Rising UK rapper TjTUCKER steps onto the stage with his latest EP Sin + Sincerity. The 4 track body of work serves as the first entry in his Duality trilogy, where he explores the concept of sin and sincerity and the complexities of the duality of human nature. Sin + Sincerity is mostly filled with mellow experimental trap/soul soundscapes and underpinned by the rapper’s laidback flow and expressive songwriting that details his experiences dealing with flaws, and external judgment that often put pressure on us all.
The first track “Phase One” is a collaboration with vocalist Marii Ella who adds a sultry vocal performance to the track. The beat here has a surreal and atmospheric vibe with thumping trap drums and sees TjTUCKER detailing the early stages of love and the giddiness that comes with it. Both TjTUCKER and Marii Ella share their perspective views with lines like “This is the best time when the moon’s up when it’s just started/I really do hear when it breaks down/We deserve trust but I need love that’s gone through fire” where the rapper confesses that he needs something real. The next track, “Phone A Friend” continues on a similar frequency with its dark ethereal textures and 808-laden trap drums. This is underpinned by TjTUCKER’s reflective lyrics that look back at a past love and the gradual decay of that relationship.
Next is the sublime “Blue Moon” featuring vocalist misu. The track employs a soul-jazz vibe and lofi elements underpinned by TjTUCKER’s commanding flow and engaging storytelling skills. Here he shows growth and self-assertiveness after going through the wringer with lines like “Charge it to the game, reimburse me/Everything I’ve given I’mma get back plus double” which underscores his newfound development and renewed vigour. The final track “Letting it Go” is self-explanatory and is underpinned by TjTUCKER’s laidback melody-driven flows. Here, he talks about his mental health, daily struggles and the coping mechanism that helps him deal with the pain. He doesn’t mince his words and tackles the topic from his perspective which men can relate to in many ways.
Sin + Sincerity is short and cohesive. The use of dark trap/soul aesthetics fits the mostly reflective themes and unapologetic songwriting.
Stream on Bandcamp.
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