Los Angeles hip hop visionary, Dak, delivers an eclectic mix of innovative sounds & lyrical styles on his powerful new EP, “2 Face.” Merging years of formal musical training in jazz piano with a passion for activism & Spoken Word poetry, the rising artist constructs a ground-breaking platter of sonic brilliance that will prove to be a timeless testament of the creative genius’ unflagging dedication to his craft.
We begin the journey with the Brenna Feeney featured “Distracted” that finds the lyricist caught up in life’s diversions while the lush melodies, clever rhymes and outstanding chorus give listeners plenty to focus on. It’s already clear by the end of this track that Dak knows EXACTLY what he’s doing! “Draining Me” follows with primal rhythms and several changes in vocal tone & flow that sound like a mad scientist put Kendrick Lamar, Earl Sweatshirt & Eminem in a blender to produce a superhuman emcee bio-engineered to wreck shop and deliver top quality tracks for music fans everywhere! “Pain and the Pleasure” rolls out next & simply put, it’s a soul-lifting experience. The familiar groove triggers waves of nostalgia while building up excitement for whatever possibilities the future may hold. “See the joy in life/ its got its ups and downs but enjoy the ride.”
“For Myself”(feat. Schwa)provides a powerhouse lyrical and musical showcase for the west coast super talent. The strength contained in the emcee’s vocal cadence is nothing short of uncanny and the piano arrangement & background harmonies are unquestionably superb. This is beauty set to rhythm. Listeners the world over will salute the artist for a job well done! “Save a Life” supplies more music mastery with Dak’s flawless rhyme flow effortlessly blending with infectious production that sounds at once both intimate & accessible. “Can you make it through?/Can you pick yourself up off the ground?” We know Dak can. He’s practically floating! “The Audition” rounds out the project with a triumphant tale of an actor who refuses to give up on his dreams despite the naysayers telling him to quit. No matter how the story ends, the determined performer knows in his heart and soul, “It was worth it!”
Dak is unlike any other artist. In fact, he offers something more. His musical instincts combined with formal training make him a considerable threat to newcomers entering the industry…and the scary part is that he’s just getting started. “2 Face” is a sensational project guaranteed to open doors for the gifted lyricist/producer, but there’s more to come my friends. This is only Side A.
– Kevin Keith
Check out the project’s single, “Draining Me,” below.
