The very first thing that sticks with you about ‘One of Dem’ is the energy Crown Vega and Archangel throw into the project. The seven-track EP is heavy with power, purpose, and nothing but pure lyricism. Right out of the gates, “F U” pounds with thick bars and an overall nonchalant energy. The beat has a nostalgic, gritty feel, and as the two go back and forth with the verses, it’s clear they are firing on all cylinders. It’s a track that lets the world know these two are coming hard, intentional, and unbothered. “In the Way” ups the ante with a distorted beat and deeper cuts. It’s a change of pace, a little more introspective, but still heavy on the edges. The hook has a sing-along quality, but it still keeps things real, and the verses shine with a bravado that’s not afraid to show a little soul.
Things pick back up with “We da Ones”, faster flows over a theatrical, slightly vintage-sounding beat. It’s energetic, but not too over-the-top. There’s a realness to it as both members show out on wordplay but don’t forget the fire that started the whole thing. “Everything but Basic” is a little mellower, a smooth joint with a bounce that gives the song an undeniable swagger. It also has a more positive energy, as the theme is self-worth and the drive to be more than the average bear. “Go the Distance” has that fire still burning brightly, with an underlying positive message. It’s punchy, almost more staccato in its approach, but still an anthem for those trying to grind. In the verses, you can hear both rappers pushing through and shining a light on the realities of putting in work.
“I Need That” is more mellow as it comes closer to the end of ‘One of Dem’, but even with the more subtle bounce, the two artists are still thirsting for more and not afraid to show it. The track stays crisp, and the delivery is true to the bars and clear about the ravenous hunger these two show throughout the entire EP. The EP ends on “Motion”, a true closer. It still packs in that same energy, hustle, and flows to die for, but this one feels like it has a more modern spin to the production. The chemistry between Crown Vega and Archangel is undeniable. They compliment each other in every way, flowing back and forth without missing a beat. It’s a balance that they maintain throughout the entire project. ‘One of Dem’ isn’t just a new release; it’s a statement from start to finish. Bars for days, good production, and two artists who are aware of who they are.
Follow Crown Vega and Archangel on Spotify
English