The third release from one of the scenes most thought provoking rhymesters delivers even more evidence to the case that Mantra has mastered his craft.
From powerful beat-laden productions to his skilful flow variation, Telling Scenes is a welcome return to a scene expanding beyond its own expectation.
The first taste of the release, in the form of opening track ‘Learn Your Language’, affirms the Emcee’s taste for slick production, matched immaculately alongside a meticulous vocal flow; a cornerstone of Mantra’s musical talent. The balance forged between the tracks rhythmic breakup through verses and simplistic chorus provide an early album highlight.
Further down the track listing, ‘Loudmouth’, the releases first single, reflects on the versifiers school days in a defiantly cheeky manner.
The powerfully driven production, predominantly bass driven, offers a musical rendition of a mischievous adolesces, supporting phrases such as “my entire life I only had one skill/ never had a crazy ambition to fulfil. A verse later, I was sittin’ in back/ scribblin’ my raps/ tryin’ to conceal what was hidden in my bag” adds to the tracks audacity in fine fashion.
Second single ‘Break Tradition’ contrasts the lighter initial themes in the release, touching on much darker emotions, with vocal assistance from Cisco Tavares.
The heartfelt narrative unfolds into an emotive and somewhat empowering track comprising of mournful chorus melodies, to eye opening inspired storytelling by the Melbourne MC. Adding to the shadier lyrical themes, the Cam Bluff fuelled production offers an expressive and soulful backing, marking one of the albums strongest tracks.
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Mantra’s third full length release gives listeners an emotional spectrum of Australian hip hop without forfeiting the MC’s talent as one of the scenes most technically gifted lyricists.
The continuing quality of lyrical makeup, combined with a seamless production eventuates in one of Mantra’s greatest offerings.
Stream the album below:
