SpideR-$tyleZ - New Years

SpideR-$tyleZ

New Years
self-released; 2014

3.6 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

SpideR-$tyleZ is a hip-hop artist from New York who recently released his debut album entitled New Years. According to the artist, New Years signifies change. Personal change, changes in the world of hip-hop and art, and changes in society, which consequently will follow. It’s a theme that he seamlessly weaves through the twenty songs using inventive lyrics.

My first thoughts were that this is a long album. Twenty tracks is a lot to get through but after I started listening from beginning to end it felt smooth and wasn’t testing my patience. There were two reasons for this; the stellar production and the diversity within the album. Let’s start with the production, which can compete with any respected hip-hop album. The songs are filled with a rich variety of instrumentation and samples. Synths, horns, drums, guitar and more are pasted throughout the album but one thing remains the same - a nice, thick robust bass. Bass is essential on a hip-hop album and it’s kicking on this album.

Out of the twenty songs there were none that felt like duds. The songs are incredibly consistent. That being said there were a couple of notable tracks. The theme of change is present within the first track entitled "Golden Era". He refers to hip-hop artists the were at the height of their popularity during the early 90's such as Cypress Hill, 2pac, Fugees and Master P. The sense of nostalgia will apparent to anyone born before 1981 and how the game has changed. The second track “Civil Service” melds synths and what sounds like wind instruments over some impressive rhymes. It emits a chill, mellow vibe that you can lay back and bob your head to. 

“New Years” mixes up panning strings with orchestral strings against a deep bass. This is definitely best listened to on a nice pair of headphones. SpideR-$tyleZ sings about revolution which ties into his central theme. Nicely done sir. The longest track on the album entitled “Reinvention” is smooth and implements a number of well-placed samples while “The Big Picture” paints a darker atmosphere.

"Reinvention" splices up  vocal samples and his lyrics talk about personal growth as well as how we communicate to younger generations. He raps "I think we really need to switch what we say to the kids". "The Big Picture" is a declaration for change in the hip-hop community. He points out the frivolous nature of geographical resentment amongst the factions and that a united front maybe more beneficial to the community.

SpideR-$tyleZ lyrical delivery isn’t the fastest around but he has his own sense of style. His biggest asset lies in the words themselves, which are often reflective and intelligent. At times I heard a bit of Eminem in his voice, other times I didn’t.

Overall, New Years is good album that was a treat to listen to. Recommended.

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