For a minute, it seemed like araabMUZIK's name was popping off everywhere. The master of the MPC has built up quite the impressive roster of collaborators, including acts like ScHoolboy Q, Danny Brown, Slaughterhouse, A$AP Mob, Royce Da 5'9", 50 Cent & more. For those who aren't familiar with the Providence producer, araab has been deemed by many to have the dopest hands on the MPC. There are many videos showcasing his godlike skill at handling drum machines and sequencers in real time, including this gem (which literally left Alchemist in tears), and his unique skill set has transitioned well into the studio.
Coming off the wave of his last album Dream World and his collaborative project with the one and only Joe Budden Rage & The Machine, aarabMUZIK is set to return to the fold with a brand new EP. The project, titled 1 Of 1, will be dropping on October 13th, and will find the producer exploring a bold new artistic direction. In addition to the announcement, aarab has shared a beautiful new single titled "Wanted." The melancholic instrumental finds the producer dabbling with some new vibes, weaving together a dreamlike ballad. As per usual the drum-work is on point, but the true highlight is the sampling and arrangement.
The final product is a haunting blend of acoustic guitar, piano, and a haunting vocal melody from Nevelle Viracocha. It's strange, though-provoking, and beautiful - the best dreams often are. While aarabMUZIK has proven he can craft a hip-hop banger, it's cool to see him experimenting with different sonic directions. Overall, "Wanted" is one of the strongest instrumental cuts I've heard in a while, and if 1 Of 1 follows in its footsteps, we should be in for something special.
As far as 1 Of 1, aarabMUZIK had this to say: “The 1 of 1 EP will leave no araabMUZIK fan confused about where I’m heading artistically. The MVP of the MPC is here to stay.” Check out the official tracklist below:
1) “Disco”
2.) “Lock” f/ Nevelle Viracocha
3.) “Madonna”
4.) “Selda” f/ !llmind
5.) “Wanted” f/ Nevelle Viracocha
6.) “Planets”
