As a member of superHero, lyrical & production wiz Apollo, delivered one of the most innovative albums of 2015 so far with “The Middle.” Now the creative mastermind returns with a new solo project titled “the otherside: an art exhibit,” that pushes his otherworldly artistry even further into the stratosphere.
Apollo appropriately kicks things off with “the entrance,” a soulful confection of audio energy that serves as a 2 minute treat for the eardrums while the emcee relays how he’s “out here on his grind.” “i” is another groove based effort that allows the lyricist to vent about his daily struggles. Times are hard but Apollo stays focused! “free speech” is a beautiful composition with its piano-laden soundscape and worldly themes. As the artist digs deep to break down issues he’s observed or personally experienced, we feel his pain and confusion. If the world possessed a sonic backdrop like this one to consistently guide us along, all of our problems would instantly be resolved! “circles” rolls in next with a track that will wake up any listeners who slept on Apollo in the past. The beat, bassline, and sped up vocal sample combine with the spitter’s acrobatic flow to produce an unmitigated hit. You’ll keep this one on repeat all month long! “ii: a love poem” radiates with a dope “AFTER the after party” club vibe. The emcee regales his alluring object of affection with flirtatious musings she’ll find impossible to resist! On “rolling” Apollo observes that “my people keep falling dead to the floor” and turns to a little medicinal relief to escape the sad reality. “been too long”(ft. Xavier)offers a funky, rock-based foundation while “medicine” eases into place with a moody production that reflects the emcee’s inner turmoil.
“iii” is a breezy track that finds Apollo regaining the strength and confidence to accept the fact he’s a “superHero,” while “wild one” promises to blow out your speakers with its SAVAGE beats! “memoirs” serves up an atmospheric confessional that triggers a variety of wide-ranging topics from the lyricist. He delves into depression, a loss of faith, forgotten birthdays, cancer, corruption, racism, and the stress of simply existing. For a song that’s a little over 4 minutes it’s a lot to digest. But Apollo pulls it off with supreme mastery and control of the mic. “lost pt.2″(featuring AJ Bank$y & Kendall Rankin)reveals the artist in a contemplative mood about life and future success. How can anyone truly know him when he doesn’t know himself? “iv: life poem”(feat. DTE) is a sonic mantra for hope and success while “i don’t know”(featuring Danielle Mathis)will revive your spirit with positive upliftment. “more than a piece” (feat. Rica G)continues the theme of fighting one’s inner demons while “v.” brings back that classic soul by utilizing the “Who Can I Run To” track made famous by The Jones Girls(and later Xscape). The production also showcases a stand out performance from AG, who takes over the entire joint with his magnetic flow. “celebration” flips Teddy Pendergrass’ signature “Close The Door” single by chopping up the track, layering it with Boom Bap beats and supplying plenty of electric rhymes from Apollo & featured guest, Sakima while “the exit”(the otherside)reunites him with superHero teammate, DJ Ghost, to close out the aural exhibit on a triumphant note.
Apollo’s solid craftsmanship is evident when listening to his latest project. He possesses boundless creativity and a sense of honesty that will be embraced by underground heads as well as the mainstream consumer. If you want to hear music with a high standard of quality, Apollo’s the one artist you can always turn to. Forget about the same old song and dance you get from other artists…and venture to “the otherside!”
– Kevin Keith
