Hailing from Evanston, IL, Kweku Collins is often grouped in with the forward-thinking indie rappers in Chicago, though his sound feels at once more experimental and more expressive than that of many of his peers. Lyricism isn't as much a focal point for him as is making his voice a living, breathing part of his compositions -- a constant and unpredictable element that gives a narrative to the jams he creates in his bedroom studio. His new one, "jump.i," is highly fascinating, though it'll take repeat listens to understand the song's context. He warbles over a foggy but immersive production, sounding like he's at an impasse, from which he could either suffocate or spread his wings and fly away. The unpredictability is what makes "jump.i" so special.
The song is Collins' first solo release since his excellent Nat Love project, released in April. Read HNHH's interview with "the songwriter exploring rap's fluidity" here.
Quotable Lyrics
It's tough to be passive and kind
Love without balance, I'm on my knees at 6AM
With a smile on my face, and a minute 'til I'm out of time
