In today’s fast paced world, music is continuously existing and more artists are existing in the ecosystem. From the emergence of Shrap, to the assimilation of drill and even submergence of old songs due to TikTok and Arbantone, the music scene is slowly morphing into an exciting scene. For many music listeners the Hip Hop scene has been facing a decline in terms of artists and fans. This shift happened during the CoVid-19 pandemic in 2020 and also when Drill dominated the better part of music in 2022, other than that very few significant events have been happening in the Hip Hop scene. Despite such shocking revelations, there are a couple of Hip Hop artists still pushing the art in the underground system. Touching on deeper topics such as sobriety, the government, pan africanism, religion and more. From Boi Blacc, 2.E, nNene K, Mikeey, Musa Kiama, and more, conscious Hip Hop continuously saves face. Late last year producer KiliHippie teamed up with long time collaborator The Swamiii for “The Intentional Seed.” A true diamond in the rough.
Kilihippie and The Swamiii’s work speaks for them. With over ten years in the industry, the two have a couple of hard knocking singles on their sleeves. Thus “The Intentional Seed,” is another addition to their cannon of cathartic projects. Released in late 2024, the project lies on interactive soundscapes. Mellow productions coupled up by boom bap beats create an authoritative yet laid back experience. The duo have a laid back relationship where their art seamlessly blends into each other. Kilihippie as a producer has his strong points with one of them showing his artistic expertise in the creation of melodies as seen in ‘Global Thinking.’ The aggressive 808s create a depth with a repetitive body. 2.E forms the perfect addition to the trio as he comes with cold bars “..naskia preacher man mathugs naskia pia poko,” which loosely translates to him listening to opinions of everyone from religious leaders and prostitutes..” The song also points out their passion to the gamme as The Swamiii says “..Hip Hop is the movement told them imma make it through…” and 2.E states “..tumekuwa tukiroga kama Machoka tuko standard 2, hii ni ile rende iko passionate mapaka iliacha chuo..”
The Swamiii’s confidence occasionally oozes out. Whether it’s consciously or subconsciously, his cockiness is perfectly parallel to the persona in his songs. He proudly thumps his chest in ‘22nd Jump Street,’ with pristine audacity doubled up with self awe as he raps “..OGs hear me and sing hallelujah// top 2 and not 2 that’s not a caption that’s statement..,” indirectly throwing a middle finger to the mainstream media. His cheeky wordplay requires attention as experienced in the title song ‘The Intentional Seed.’ The second and last collaborator on the album is Boi Blacc who is no new cat in working with the producer-rapper duo. In ‘Growth Is Pain, Never Question,’ BoiBlacc and The Swamiii express thoughts on the different phases we experience in life. They sum up their POV of life with different philosophical beliefs such as Nihilism. From working hard and making a livelihood using music, the over consumption of capitalism and the constant need of giving yourself flowers are expressed in this single. Creating a warm and safe environment, Boi Blacc connects with his fans with bedrotting comparisons that we often relate to.
“The Intentional Seed,” tackles in depth themes in a calm way as The Swamiii casually lays cocaine infused verses in ‘Penitentiary Philosophy.’ Once again the duo create another masterpiece. The hopeful yet sombre production immediately lays foundation for The Swamiii’s introspective narration. Serving as a double entendre, the penitentiary refers to an inner battle between good and evil, “..first name angel second demon.” while also trying to be morally upright creates a spiritual encounter “..they focus on the language while I focus on the message..” symbolzing his relationship with music is a spiritual journey. Kilihippie and The Swamiii create a perfect outro to the album. Ending on a high note, The Swamiii takes over the reign in Swahili lingo backed up by the victorious cymbals, once again, Kilihippie follows the beat switch style as observed in “New Balance.”
In conclusion “The Intentional Seed,” is a diamond in the rough creating a reference for one of the best conscious rap albums of 2024. The chemistry between the producer and the artist creates the synergy resulting in a well oiled machine. It surpasses a typical rap album with cheeky lines, collaboration, and definitely intentionality to the message passed .
Stream “The Intentional Seed”
