Ron Obasi - Notes on a Scale II | Track-by-Track Listen
In true Track-by-Track listen, fashion, we’re going to get right into this one. Coming from Nashville, Ron Obasi delivers his latest offering Notes on a Scale II with just 4 tracks and clocking in just under 14 minutes. I’m a sucker for cover art. It grabbed my attention and I hope it has the same ability to retain my ears.
Good Rapz II - I really like this sample and smooth bass that starts the track. The drums don’t disappoint here, either. “Let it breathe Cole”. Shoutout to MixedByCole, a producer/engineer who has worked on a number of my favorite projects this year. Nashville is spawning a lot of talent. Ron feels more poet than rapper here. Not sure if that’s the production or his presence on the microphone. I haven’t dug into Ron’s discography but this is a nice introduction.
Crack the Code (feat. RyAnne & JORDAN Xx) - Again, I’m drawn to the sample selection. There’s a lot of energy. A lot going on in the production, not sure if it’s to its benefit or detriment. Got to love a change in the beat. I like what the vocals are doing here. It takes the record to a new place.
Mo’ Luxury (feat. Jxdece) - On the third track and I can tell this production is Obasi’s bread and butter. This is most definitely his pocket. “Nigga ask yoself, you ain’t really trying is you?” the hook inquires. A thought that I’m sure has crossed the mind of a lot of creatives during this period in quarantine. The shortest track on the project but it might have the most to say. The record spinning down is a nice touch.
Write(ous) Men (feat. RyAnne) - Alright, I’ve said it before and I’m saying it again here: when someone features more than once, it demands that I go and research that artist. Who is this? Why are they so present on your project? And as I’m typing this, RyAnne layers the hook beautifully. Don’t doubt Ron’s lyricism. I think he has a story to tell or at least some knowledge to drop. I was skeptical with a song with the word “write” in the title but the pen does not disappoint on the closing track of this project. I’d like to ask about the slowing down of these records and the beat changes. Is there a theme here or is it a sonic preference?
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Notes on a Scale II is available on Apple Music.