Swiss Hip Hop Duo, Conscious Presence, deliver a 21 track boom bap extravaganza for the ages! The self-titled power platter showcases the expert craftsmanship of lyricist The Soul Seeker & producer Sound-Sage who take the music back to the essence with an analog only affair that can’t be topped! The fact that every song was recorded in one take makes their debut even more impressive. They enter the studio with a set vision of what they’re trying to achieve and realize their goals in record time!
The project launches into action with hard-hitting drums & raw, authentic bars on “Dedication.” The group go after their dreams while shouting out all the inspired believers who bring hope to the world. “Metal & Cement” follows with a DJ Premier worthy backdrop that will shake true heads to the core! Usually listeners need time to digest the contents of a new album but Conscious Presence want to ensure you become a fan the second you press play. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED. “Original” excels with a funky 70’s club groove then gets trampled by a monstrous beat & horn hits on “Soul Trap” that would make Pete Rock weep.
“The Now”(Interlude)gives us time to catch our breath & marvel over a glorious exercise in progressive sound & rhythm before “The Vibes” filters through the atmosphere with ethereal melodies reined in by The Soul Seeker’s authoritative command of the mic. “Curiosity” contains one of the most “in the pocket” performances from the emcee while “Love, Everybody” finds the skilled spitter navigating around a hypnotically bouncy track with ease. “Divine” maintains the group’s gritty aesthetic with jewels of wisdom sprinkled on top of the sonic confection for good measure. “Path Of The Sage” (Interlude) provides another stellar excursion from the action while subconsciously preparing us for the excitement to come.
“CP Theme Song” showcases The Soul Seeker’s “hyperbolic pen flow” over a high-powered instrumental while “Elements” amps up the energy with deadly kicks & snares that could take out your entire block! “Seed Of Love” powers forward with a smooth soundscape & lyrics radiating spiritual awareness while “Warrior Spiritual” magnifies the emcee’s sacred philosophies even further. “Patience”(Interlude) slinks in with a minimalist arrangement before “Resonance” stomps onto the sonic canvas with a bold sense of purpose. “Edge Of Abyss” finds The Soul Seeker dropping gems over a funky track magnificently stripped down to its bare essentials before being supplanted by the eerie, orchestral vibe of “Black Emerald.”
“Luminaries” (Interlude) shakes up the scene by delivering a head-nodding shuffle beat peppered with colorful rhythms that lead into “Farewell, Wayfarer.” The duo vanish into the night with the “Steadfast Sunset” (Outrolude) and a legion of listeners who will be heavily impacted by their outstanding artistry. To put it simply, Sound-Sage & The Soul Seeker have created a masterpiece. Although influenced by the past, Conscious Presence unquestionably represents the future of the genre. Their self-titled debut must not be overlooked!
– Kevin Keith
