New York resident Coldxman just burst onto the scene with his debut album, Amor fati, which translates to "love of fate." However, this project's characteristics, vision, and displays of skill seem much more refined that many first releases out there. Of course, that's due to Coldxman, real name Coleman Hughes, being an accomplished musician and writer before his independent rap debut. Moreover, he's a talented trombone player and jazz soloist who's played worldwide with the likes of the Mingus Big Band and Rihanna. Also, he played since he was 3, grew up as a passionate listener and musician, and went to Juilliard on a full scholarship to study jazz.
Moreover, Amor fati roots itself in classic boom-bap rhythms and East Coast flows, which come through clearly and vividly. For example, he's able to switch between confidence and doubt, anger and tenderness, melodic choruses to rapid-fire verses. Also, given his accomplished background, these songs sit on a foundation of beautiful and crisp instrumentation. Whether it's sharp drum patters, woozy guitars, colorful brass, or resonant keys, there's a world to discover in each beat. Some of the album's best tracks are "What Doesn't Kill U," "25," and "Blasphemy." While it's clearly rooted in current sounds and genre styles, what brings everything together is Hughes's perspective. Even with the quality of the beats and genre fusions, they're crucially supported by his message.
Throughout this album, the young MC tackles systemic racism, cultural narratives that shift people against each other, and navigating it in a difficult landscape. Overall, it's a compelling and vivid picture of a creative and thoughtful mind that's surely got more in store. Still, what did you think of Coldxman's debut album, Amor fati? However y, let us know in the comments and check out the project's tracklist down below. Also, if you haven't heard the project yet, you can find it in your preferred streaming service. As always, come back to HNHH for the freshest new music each week from current titans and the next generation.
Tracklist
1. 25
2. Straight A's
3. All To Myself
4. Take
5. Alibi (feat. Estrella)
6. Blasphemy
7. Forward
8. Chinos
9. What Doesn't Kill U
10. Fruit
